diabete

Diabete, commonly spelled diabetes mellitus, is a chronic condition characterized by high blood glucose levels resulting from defects in insulin production, insulin action, or both. Insulin is a hormone that enables cells to take up glucose from the blood.

There are several forms: Type 1 (autoimmune destruction of insulin-producing cells), Type 2 (insulin resistance and progressive insulin deficiency), gestational diabetes (occurs during pregnancy). Other specific types include monogenic forms and diseases secondary to other conditions.

Symptoms include increased thirst, frequent urination, extreme hunger, unintended weight loss, fatigue, blurred vision, and slow-healing wounds. Diagnosis uses blood tests such as fasting plasma glucose, HbA1c, and oral glucose tolerance test.

Management focuses on maintaining blood glucose in a target range through medications (insulin for Type 1 and some Type 2, oral agents such as metformin, and newer drugs), along with diet, physical activity, and regular monitoring. Education and self-management are key.

Complications can affect nearly every organ, including the eyes (retinopathy), kidneys (nephropathy), nerves (neuropathy), heart and blood vessels (cardiovascular disease), and feet. Acute risks include hypoglycemia and diabetic ketoacidosis.

Global prevalence is high and rising. Prevention is possible for Type 2 through lifestyle changes; gestational diabetes requires postpartum follow-up because it increases future risk of Type 2 diabetes. Ongoing research seeks better treatments and potential cures.