Diabeetinen

Diabeetinen is a Finnish term used to describe a person who has diabetes mellitus. In everyday Finnish, it can be used as an adjective (diabeetinen henkilö) or as a noun to refer to the person.

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic condition defined by high blood glucose due to insufficient insulin production or impaired insulin action. The condition includes several types, most commonly type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes. The term diabeetinen refers to the person and does not specify the type of diabetes.

Diagnosis typically involves fasting plasma glucose, oral glucose tolerance test, or HbA1c measurements. Treatment varies by type but generally includes self-monitoring of blood glucose, diet and physical activity, and pharmacotherapy such as insulin for many with type 1 and some with type 2, as well as oral medications or newer injectables.

Living with diabetes requires ongoing management to prevent complications such as cardiovascular disease, neuropathy, kidney damage, and eye disease. Education and multi-disciplinary care support self-management and quality of life.

In Finnish language, as in many languages, terminology surrounding diabetes has evolved to balance clarity and respectful representation. Some speakers prefer 'diabeetinen' as a descriptor; others use 'diabeetikko' or other forms. The topic intersects with medical, social, and public health contexts.