No doubt diabetes is a challenge for every patient, but for teens, managing diabetes is especially tough, according to a recent study that looked at 103 diabetic teens, ages 12 to 21.

Some of their findings are worrisome:

- 76 percent reported overeating at least weekly.
- Almost half ate fast food at least four times or more a month.
- 20 percent drank one soda or sugary drink (or more) daily.
- 68 percent watched two or more hours of TV daily.

Adopting these kinds of “bad” habits can have serious consequences. In fact, individuals who develop type 2 diabetes in their teens can also develop “eye disease, kidney disease and heart disease as early as their 20s if the disease isn't well controlled,” according to the lead researcher.

The study also found that non-white teens had an even tougher time with managing their diabetes: they were more likely to have higher glucose levels and be hospitalized.

The researchers are currently exploring whether social networking sites and familial involvement fosters healthy habits in teens.

In the meantime, here are some great WEGO Health pages on diabetes:

Type 2 diabetes

Managing diabetes

Information on diabetes

Diabetes support group

Diabetes treatment

In addition, here’s a short selection of diabetes sites that offer resources (e.g., social networking, tools and information) for helping you or your loved one manage diabetes:

American Diabetes Association
Children with diabetes
Diabetes Mine
Diabetes Teen Talks
Diabetes Friends
Tu Diabetes
Diabetes Daily
Diabetes Forums
dLife
Sugar Stats
Young Diabetics
Diabetes Blog Network