Bengaluru: Doctors in the city are witnessing a concerning rise in autoimmune disorders among children, affecting 1 in 10 with a 20% annual increase since the pandemic began. Paediatric experts attribute this surge in disorders like Type 1 diabetes, juvenile arthritis, and Celiac disease to a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Factors such as increased exposure to pollutants, poor dietary habits, and reduced microbial exposure are believed to contribute to immune system alterations leading to autoimmune disorders.
The pandemic has further exacerbated the situation, with viral infections acting as triggers for genetically predisposed children. Antibiotic overuse and disruptions in gut microbiota have also played a role in the increase in autoimmune cases. Experts warn that autoimmune disorders, which result from the immune system attacking the body’s tissues, can have a significant impact on the quality of life of affected children.
Dr. Sameera S Rao from Motherhood Hospitals emphasized the need for awareness about the role of environmental and lifestyle factors in autoimmune disorders. Dr. Yogesh Kumar Gupta from Fortis Hospital highlighted the rise in cases post-pandemic and the impact of over-sanitized environments on immune system regulation. Dr. Sampat Kumar Shettigar from Kinder Women’s Hospital pointed out the importance of early-life exposure to microbes and the role of lifestyle changes in the surge of autoimmune disorders.
While the increasing incidence rates are concerning, advancements in medical diagnostics have also contributed to better detection of autoimmune conditions. Experts stress the importance of proper management, counseling for parents and children, and the role of paediatric rheumatologists in addressing the rise in autoimmune disorders among children. Common autoimmune disorders among children include Type 1 diabetes, juvenile arthritis, and Celiac disease, all of which require lifelong management with immunosuppressants or anti-inflammatories.
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