Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 Diabetes is a progressive condition where the body becomes resistant to the insulin and/or gradually loses the capacity to produce enough insulin in the pancreas. We still do not know what causes Type 2 Diabetes, but we do know that being overweight and not getting enough exercise might contribute to the disease. Studies have found that genetic inheritance and ethnicity are contributing factors as well.

Type 2 Diabetes is diagnosed when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin or the insulin is not efficient enough, which is called insulin resistance. Some people with Type 2 Diabetes do not show any symptoms and might not get diagnosed until concequenses of the disease occur, such as heart attacks, eye problems or foot ulcers.

Type 2 Diabetes in a nutshell:

• is diagnosed when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin (reduced insulin production) and/or the insulin does not work effectively and/or the cells of the body do not respond to insulin effectively (known as insulin resistance),

• represents 85–90 per cent of all cases of diabetes,

• usually develops in adults over the age of 45 years but is increasingly occurring in younger age groups including children, adolescents and young adults,

• is more likely in people with a family history of Type 2 Diabetes or from particular ethnic backgrounds,

• is managed with a combination of regular exercise, healthy eating and weight reduction. As Type 2 Diabetes is often progressive, most people will need oral medications and/or insulin injections in addition to lifestyle changes over time.

If any of the above problems concern you, get in touch with D for Diabetes today and one of our health professionals can help you get the right treatment plan for you.