Diabetes is a condition affecting the body’s ability to produce or utilize insulin. Insulin, a hormone, facilitates the transfer of energy (glucose) derived from food to cells. It acts as a “key,” instructing cells to receive glucose. In cases of insufficient insulin production or insulin resistance, excess sugar accumulates in the blood, resulting in elevated blood glucose levels. There are two primary types of diabetes: Type 1 and Type 2.
Type 1 diabetes occurs when the pancreas fails to produce insulin. Initially referred to as juvenile diabetes, it is commonly diagnosed in children or teenagers but can also affect adults. This type comprises 5-10% of all diabetes cases.
Type 2 diabetes arises when the body either produces insufficient insulin or experiences insulin resistance, where cells cannot efficiently utilize insulin. Often termed “adult-onset diabetes,” it is typically diagnosed later in life, usually after age 45, and constitutes 90-95% of diabetes cases. In recent years, Type 2 diabetes has been increasingly diagnosed in younger individuals, including children.
Gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy, affecting around 18% of pregnancies. While it usually resolves post-pregnancy, having gestational diabetes increases the risk of recurrence in future pregnancies. Some women with gestational diabetes may develop Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes later in life. Prediabetes, another form, involves elevated blood sugar levels not reaching diabetes diagnosis criteria. It affects an estimated 84.1 million Americans in addition to the 30.3 million with diabetes.
Genetics, lifestyle, and environment are factors contributing to diabetes. Unhealthy eating habits, obesity, insufficient exercise, and other lifestyle factors may lead to Type 2 diabetes. Type 1 diabetes results from an autoimmune response where the body’s immune system attacks and destroys insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas.
Elevated blood sugar levels, or hyperglycemia, can lead to kidney disease, heart disease, and vision impairment over time. Excess sugar damages small blood vessels in the eyes and kidneys and can cause arterial hardening or narrowing.
Sometimes, diabetes may be uncovered during routine examinations by eye or foot doctors due to its effects on circulation and small blood vessels. If these specialists suspect diabetes, they will recommend a blood sugar level test performed by your regular physician.
The primary test is a fasting blood glucose test. After at least eight hours of fasting, typically overnight, your doctor will draw a blood sample. Normal fasting blood glucose levels range from 70 to 110 mg/dl. A level of 126 mg/dl or higher may indicate diabetes.
If you exhibit signs of diabetes, consult your doctor for tests to confirm the diagnosis. Your doctor will provide recommendations to manage diabetes and lower blood sugar levels, or to delay the development of Type 2 diabetes.
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