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Diabetes - Overview
Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how your body regulates blood sugar (glucose), a vital energy source for cells. When the body either doesn't produce enough insulin or can’t use it effectively, glucose builds up in the bloodstream—leading to a range of health issues if left unmanaged.
What is Diabetes?
There are two primary types of diabetes:
- Type 1 Diabetes: An autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. It often appears during childhood or adolescence.
- Type 2 Diabetes: A metabolic disorder where the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t produce enough. It’s more common in adults but is increasingly seen in younger populations due to lifestyle factors.
A third type, gestational diabetes, occurs during pregnancy and usually resolves after childbirth, though it increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.
Why is Diabetes Important to Understand?
Globally, diabetes is one of the most common chronic diseases, impacting millions of people and contributing to serious complications like heart disease, kidney failure, vision loss, nerve damage, and limb amputations. Early detection and proper management are crucial for preventing long-term health issues.
Key Facts:
- Over 500 million adults worldwide are living with diabetes, with numbers projected to rise.
- Many cases of type 2 diabetes can be prevented or delayed through diet, exercise, and weight control.
- Uncontrolled diabetes is a leading cause of death and disability globally.
Who is at Risk?
- People with a family history of diabetes
- Individuals who are overweight or obese
- Those with sedentary lifestyles
- Certain ethnic groups, such as South Asians, African Americans, and Hispanics
- Women who had gestational diabetes