Approximately 16 million people in the United States have diabetes, as reported by Net Wellness. Another 57 million people have pre-diabetes, which means that they are likely to transition into full diabetes within 10 years. Diabetes can affect people of every age, race and sex without discrimination. It requires careful monitoring and control to prevent complications.
Definition and Types
Diabetes refers to a condition which the pancreas does not create adequate amounts of insulin, or in other cases insulin is produced, but the cells cannot utilize it, according to the Ohio State Medical Center. Three types of diabetes exist, type 1, type 2 and gestational diabetes. In type 1 diabetes, the pancreas does not create ample insulin to allow the body to pull glucose out of the blood and into the cells for use. Type 2 diabetics are a little different. In some cases, type 2 diabetics do not create enough insulin, and in other cases the body simply isn't able to utilize the existing insulin, causing too much glucose to remain in the blood. Gestational diabetes occurs in pregnancy and typically resolves after delivery.
Symptoms
Typical symptoms of diabetes include excessive thirst and urination, as well as fatigue, infection and weight loss, as noted by the Mayo Clinic. These symptoms occur most often in type 1 and type 2 diabetics, although gestational diabetics may experience them as well.
Causes
Causes of diabetes differ with each type. Type 1 diabetes is caused by an immune system disorder that causes the body to turn on itself, destroying cells in the pancreas responsible for producing insulin. According to MayoClinic.com, the cause of type 2 diabetes isn't as well known. The body develops a resistance to insulin, which doctors think may be attributed to higher amounts of fat, particularly in the belly. Gestational diabetes occurs when pregnancy hormones make it difficult for cells to absorb and use insulin in the blood stream.
Complications
Uncontrolled diabetes can cause serious, life-threatening health problems. Kidney and heart complications occur. The eyes can be affected, with blindness ultimately occurring if blood sugar isn't kept under control. Risks of heart disease and stroke also increase. In not treated properly, diabetes can lead to sores that don't heal, which can result in the need for amputation, as noted by the Ohio State University Medical Center.
Risk Factors
Several risk factors increase the chance of developing diabetes. Obesity and a lack of exercise are two of the biggest risk factors, although they can be controlled with lifestyle changes. People who have a family history of diabetes and people of certain ethnicities, such as African Americans and Asians, have an increased risk.
