What is Type 2 Diabetes?

Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body cannot properly use insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar. This is also known as insulin resistance.

Type 2 diabetes happens when the body can’t properly use insulin, leading to insulin resistance.

Insulin helps cells absorb glucose for energy. At first, the pancreas makes extra insulin, but over time it can’t keep up

What Are the Risk Factors for Developing Type 2 Diabetes?

According to data from the International Diabetes Federation, 537 million cases of diabetes were reported worldwide in 2021—90% of which correspond to type 2 diabetes.

These may be factors for developing type 2 diabetes and are not exclusive causes:

Obesity
Lifestyle
Lack of physical activity
Smoking
Genetic predisposition found in UAE research (Asian Americans, African Americans, Latinos, Native Americans)

While there is currently no cure for type 2 diabetes, it can often be managed with lifestyle modifications (i.e. diet and exercise) and medication.

What’s the Difference Between Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes?

Type 1 is different because the immune system attacks the pancreas, preventing insulin production. People with type 1 need insulin for life, and there’s no cure. Without early detection, both types of diabetes can cause high blood sugar, leading to symptoms like:

Extreme thirst
Frequent urination
Blurry vision
Weight gain or loss

How Are the Two Types of Diabetes Similar?

While type 2 and type 1 differ in nature, where they often meet is in complications. Prolonged levels of high blood sugar in anyone with diabetes can lead to long-term complications ranging from heart disease, kidney failure, foot complications, eye complications and nerve damage.

Additional Reading

To Reveal or Not to Reveal Your Diagnosis?
- Hear how this woman handles the uncomfortable work situation when she is offered sweets.
Diabetes is Not Your Fault
- Dealing with a diabetes diagnosis is hard enough, and blaming yourself does not help. Learn that you are not alone and how to manage this emotionally impacting health reality.

Resources

Physical Wellness

The Not-So-Secret Key to Blood Sugar Balance? Gut Health

Blood sugar management is like a symphony. Glucose is the melody, rising and falling with each meal. Insulin, the conductor, keeps the harmony and prevents any chaotic spikes. Meanwhile, gut health provides the steady rhythm that holds it all together....