This type of diabetes is becoming increasingly common among adults over 40 years of age and is closely related to obesity, physical inactivity and family history of type 2 diabetes.
Unlike type 1 diabetes, type 2 is not related to the complete loss of insulin secretion but to disorders related to the action or the secretion of insulin. The body does not respond normally to its own insulin or the insulin produced is insufficient in quantities or less effective than it should be.
The treatment of this condition begins with a combination of healthy diet and physical activity. However, if these measures do not normalise glucose levels, tablets and/or insulin will also be required. Nowadays, it is becoming increasingly common for type 2 diabetes to be managed with insulin.
Just like type 1, type 2 diabetes is a serious condition that may lead to severe complications if not diagnosed early and treated appropriately. There is however strong evidence today that a healthy lifestyle, increased physical activity and weight loss can prevent the onset of type 2 diabetes. Good glycaemic control and improved blood pressure reduces the risk of developing long term complications.
