For Keavin, 6, it's a daily struggle with diabetes

Keavin Ho Pak-him might seem like any lively primary schoolboy, but he has a medical problem that presents a daily challenge to his family.

Keavin has suffered from Type 1 diabetes for four of his six years, requiring daily injections and strict control of his diet and blood sugar levels.

"It requires a lot of discipline," the boy's mother, Wong Lo-ming, said. "Even if he sticks to the diet plan and medication, his blood sugar level may still fluctuate because of a physical education lesson or even his mood."

Wong was sharing her son's struggle yesterday ahead of World Diabetes Day tomorrow.

About 400 Hong Kong children have the condition, which means they are born with a defect that prevents their bodies from producing enough insulin.

The cause of Keavin's condition is unknown, as none of his family has a history of the disease.