Category Page: Diabetes

Diabetes is a chronic condition that stems from the body’s inability to sufficiently produce and/or properly utilise insulin which the body needs to use sugar as an energy source. There are three main types of diabetes:

Type 1 diabetes is usually diagnosed in children and youth. It occurs when the body’s immune system attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells of the pancreas. Currently, there is no known way to prevent this disease, and individuals with it are dependent upon an external source of insulin for life.

Type 2 diabetes is the most common type and tends to occur later in life. In this type of diabetes, the pancreas does not produce enough insulin and the body does not properly utilise the insulin which is produced. Although there are unavoidable risk factors, in many people it can be prevented by maintaining a healthy weight, following a good diet and being physically active.

Gestational diabetes occurs when hyperglycaemia originates during pregnancy and usually ends after the pregnancy. However, it does increase the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later on. Diabetes can lead to serious complications and premature death but steps can be taken to control the disease and lower the risk of complications.

For further information, see CBPP Diabetes or Diabetes Facts (PHAC).