Type 2 Diabetes

What is Type 2 Diabetes?

The World Heath Organization (WHO) defines Diabetes as a chronic, metabolic disease characterized by elevated levels of blood glucose (or blood sugar). The most common form is Type 2 Diabetes which occurs when the body develops a resistance to insulin or fails to produce enough insulin. Insulin is the hormone responsible for regulating blood sugar. It is estimated that greater than 400 million persons worldwide are currently affected by Type 2 Diabetes. This number is expected to double within the next 20 years!

What are some of the risks associated with developing Type 2 Diabetes?

·       Family history

·       Smoking

·       Alcohol

·       Obesity

·       Lack of exercise

·       Diet – too much glucose

·       Other chronic diseases        

What is normal?

If you already have Type 2 Diabetes, note the following:

What are some of the complications of Type 2 Diabetes?

Over time, Type 2 Diabetes can lead to serious damage to the heart, blood vessels, eyes, kidneys, and nerves.

·      Heart attack &/or stroke – persons with T2DM have 2 to 3 fold increased risk

·      Neuropathy (nerve damage) – coupled with reduced blood flow esp. in the feet, leads to increased risk of ulcers, infection and possible amputations

·      Kidney failure

·      Retinopathy (damage to small vessels of the eyes) – can lead to vision loss

For more information on Type 2 Diabetes & what you can do to reduce your risks, contact your regular healthcare provider today.