Early-Onset Type 2 Diabetes – Recognising Risk and Responding Early in Primary Care
January 14, 2026 @ 12:45 pm – 2:00 pm
This session explores the rising incidence of type 2 diabetes in younger adults and the unique clinical challenges it presents.
We’ll review key risk factors, clinical features, and red flags that differentiate early-onset T2DM from later-onset disease.
Participants will examine why early-onset T2DM is associated with faster progression, higher complication rates, and increased cardiovascular and renal risk.
Practical guidance will be provided on early identification in primary care, effective initial management strategies (including lifestyle, pharmacotherapy, and addressing psychosocial factors), and how to implement personalised follow-up plans that prevent long-term harm.
Speaker: Tracey Kirk – Director of Education at the Primary Care Respiratory Training Centre and the Primary Care Diabetes Training Centre.
