Diabetes

Diabetes is a chronic condition that arises when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin (type 1 diabetes), or when the body cannot effectively use the insulin produced (type 2 diabetes). Both are serious and require careful monitoring and control.
There are currently over 2.5 million people with diabetes in the UK and there are more than half a million people with diabetes who have the condition and don’t know it.
Diabetes at a glance:
  • Type 1 diabetes, formerly called juvenile diabetes or insulin-dependent diabetes, is usually first diagnosed in children, teenagers, or young adults. With this form of diabetes, the beta cells of the pancreas no longer make insulin.  Treatment for type 1 diabetes includes taking insulin.
  • Type 2 diabetes, formerly called adult-onset diabetes or non insulin-dependent diabetes, is the most common form of diabetes. People can develop type 2 diabetes at any age—even during childhood.
This form of diabetes usually begins with insulin resistance, a condition in which fat, muscle, and liver cells do not use insulin properly. At first, the pancreas keeps up with the added demand by producing more insulin. In time, however, it loses the ability to secrete enough insulin in response to meals. Being overweight and inactive increases the chances of developing type 2 diabetes. Treatment includes using diabetes medicines, making wise food choices and being physically active.
Useful contacts
The following support groups and organisations may be able to offer you further information and advice. Ask your doctor or nurse about local services too.
Diabetes UK Central Office
Macleod House,
10 Parkway,
London
NW1 7AA
Tel 020 7424 1000
www.diabetes.org.uk
 
a doctor talk to a man
Disclaimer

The information contained in these pages is intended for general reference only. It should not be used to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any condition without the advice of a qualified medical professional, and does not replace medical advice or a medical examination. Diabetes should be diagnosed by a specialist in that field. Before starting any treatment a physician needs to be consulted.

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