Maturity onset diabetes of youth (MODY) in children is a very rare form of diabetes that is caused by mutations in a single gene. Typically, this condition is diagnosed in late childhood, adolescence, or early adulthood. Because MODY runs strongly in families, it’s important to be aware of this condition if it exists in your family’s medical history.
Maturity onset diabetes of youth is caused by a mutation in a single gene. If a parent has this gene change, their children are 50% likely to inherit the gene as well. If a child does in fact inherit this gene, they will typically develop MODY by age 25, no matter their weight, lifestyle, or ethnic background.