The most common type of diabetes starts in adulthood, typically after the age of 30, and is called type 2 diabetes. This type of diabetes was previously known by the name of  "adult-onset diabetes". Type 2 diabetes accounts for about 75 percent of all cases. It affects 5% of European and 8% of American Middle-aged and older populations. It is thought that in this type of diabetes the insulin produced by the body is of normal, or slightly less than normal quantity, but the body is less sensitive to it. The reasons for this are not very clear, although it is closely linked to genetic factor and obesity (overweight).

The other main type of diabetes is called type 1 diabetes. Type 1 diabetes usually occurs in younger patients, though it is not uncommon to develop it in adulthood. It is thought that in this type of diabetes the body is unable to produce enough insulin to control the blood sugar. This is thought to be due to the loss of the beta cells which produce insulin and thus lack of insulin. Click here for more information on type 1 diabetes.

<top of page>

What happens if the diabetes is not controlled?

Many patients feel quite well when they are told that they have diabetes and thus find it difficult to see why they need to bother with changes in their diet and lifestyle (outlined in the treatment section). Without adequate control the blood sugar level tends to rise dramatically and remain high. Over time, this results in damage to blood vessels leading to heart disease, stroke, blindness, kidney failure, impotence, circulatory problems and nerve damage. The disease can also complicate pregnancy and increase the risk of birth defects. Therefore the disease is in your hands from the time of diagnosis, it is up to you whether you want the disease to take over your life, of if you want to conquer it as much as possible.

<top of page>