Diabetes is a physical condition in which the body does not produce or does not properly use insulin. Insulin is a hormone that is needed by the body in order to convert sugars, starches and other foods into energy. While the cause of diabetes is not fully understood, it does appear that genetics and certain environmental factors play a role in determining who gets the disease.
What are the major types of Diabetes?
Type 1 diabetes is caused by the body's failure to produce insulin.
Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of the disease among Americans. It is caused by the development of insulin resistance, combined with relative insulin deficiency.
Gestational diabetes develops in some women during pregnancy. Some of the women who develop gestational diabetes are subsequently diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes.
Pre-diabetes is a condition that occurs when a person's blood glucose levels exceed normal levels but have not reached a level high enough to warrant a diagnosis of Type 2 diabetes. People with pre-diabetes are at increased risk for developing diabetes.
Are you at risk?
Click here to learn more about the risk factors and symptoms of diabetes.
Have you been diagnosed with diabetes?
Click here to learn more about managing your diabetes.
Want more information?
Click here for answers to some frequently asked questions.
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