Diabetes is a condition marked by high levels of glucose (sugar) in the blood. Over the last few decades, the condition has become relatively common in the United States with more than 18 million Americans living with diabetes—most often type 2 (see below). People can acquire diabetes at any age.
Type 1 diabetes, formerly called juvenile diabetes or insulin-dependent diabetes, is usually first diagnosed in children, teenagers, or young adults. In this form of diabetes, the pancreas no longer makes insulin, a protein hormone that regulates blood sugar levels. This happens because the body's immune system has attacked and destroyed the pancreas' beta cells. Treatment for type 1 diabetes includes taking insulin shots or using an insulin pump, making wise food choices, exercising regularly, taking aspirin daily, and controlling blood pressure and cholesterol.
Type 2 diabetes, formerly called adult-onset diabetes or noninsulin-dependent diabetes, is the most common form of diabetes. People can develop type 2 diabetes at any age, including childhood. In type 2 diabetes, the pancreas does not make enough insulin, and the fat, muscle, or liver cells do not use it properly. Being overweight can increase the chances of developing type 2 diabetes. Treatment includes using diabetes medicines, making wise food choices, exercising regularly, taking aspirin daily, and controlling blood pressure and cholesterol.
Gestational diabetes is a condition that some women develop during the late stages of pregnancy. Although this form of diabetes usually goes away after the baby is born, a woman who has had it is more likely to develop type 2 diabetes later in life. Gestational diabetes is caused by an upset in the production of insulin due to hormone changes in pregnancy.
