Type 2 diabetes affects how our bodies use food for energy. Your pancreas makes either too little insulin or your cells cannot properly use the insulin produced. As a result, sugar collects in the blood, damaging tissues and organs throughout the body.
Significance
According to the American Diabetes Association, 8 percent of the U.S. population typically has diabetes, and nearly all of them are Type 2.
Signs and Symptoms
Symptoms of diabetes include extreme hunger or thirst, weight loss, frequent urination, changes in vision and sores that won't heal.
Risk Factors
The two greatest risk factors for Type 2 diabetes are being over 45 years old and being overweight.
Warnings
The National Institutes of Health reports that everyone is at risk for Type 2 diabetes, but it's most common among African-Americans, Hispanics and Native Americans.
Considerations
Type 2 diabetes increases your risk of other health problems such as heart disease, infection, and eye and nerve damage. Early diagnosis, controlling blood sugar and weight, and exercise can help prevent Type 2 diabetes.
Prognosis
There is no cure for Type 2 diabetes. Even so, many diabetics live long, active lives just by managing blood sugar and addressing any Type 2 diabetes complications.
