diabetes

Diabetes mellitus refers to a group of chronic diseases characterized by high levels of sugar (glucose) in the blood. This hyperglycemia results from defects in insulin secretion, insulin action, or both, and it requires ongoing medical management to prevent or delay complications.

There are several main forms: type 1 diabetes, an autoimmune condition in which the body stops producing insulin; type 2 diabetes, characterized by insulin resistance and often progressive insulin deficiency; and gestational diabetes, which develops during pregnancy. Other specific types result from genetic disorders, diseases of the pancreas, or certain medications.

Common symptoms include increased thirst, frequent urination, extreme hunger, unintended weight loss, fatigue, and blurred vision. Diagnosis is based on fasting plasma glucose, HbA1c, an oral glucose tolerance test, or random plasma glucose in the presence of symptoms.

Management focuses on controlling blood glucose levels to reduce risk of complications. Type 1 diabetes requires lifelong insulin therapy. Type 2 diabetes is managed with lifestyle changes and may involve oral medications, non-insulin injectables, and sometimes insulin. Monitoring, regular healthcare, and individualized targets are central.

Complications can be acute, such as diabetic ketoacidosis or hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state, and chronic, including cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, nerve damage, eye disease, and foot ulcers. Prevention relies on maintaining blood glucose within target ranges, blood pressure and lipid management, healthy eating, physical activity, and not smoking.

Diabetes is a major global health issue. Its prevalence is rising, particularly type 2 diabetes linked to aging populations and obesity. Public health strategies emphasize screening, prevention, access to care, and advances in technology such as continuous glucose monitoring and the development of new therapies.