Diabetes and Endocrinology

Diabetes: Types and Its Complications

Type 1 diabetes: It is usually caused by an autoimmune reaction when the body's defense system attacks the cells that produce insulin. The main reason for this is not fully understood. People with type 1 diabetes produce very little insulin. People with this form of diabetes need insulin injections every day in order to control the glucose levels in their blood.

Type 2 diabetes: This is usually called adult-onset non-insulin type diabetes, and it accounts for at least 90% of cases. It is characterized by relative insulin resistance and insulin deficiency, which may be present by the time diabetes is recognized. People with this type of diabetes can initially manage their condition through exercise and diet.