Diabetes is a group of metabolic disorders characterized by high blood sugar (glucose) levels. There are several types of diabetes, each with different causes and management strategies:
- Type 1 Diabetes
An autoimmune condition where the body attacks and destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.
Typically develops in children, teens, or young adults but can occur at any age.
People with Type 1 diabetes require lifelong insulin therapy since their bodies produce little to no insulin.
- Type 2 Diabetes
The most common type, usually develops in adults but is increasingly seen in younger individuals.
Caused by insulin resistance, where the body doesn’t use insulin effectively, combined with reduced insulin production.
Managed through lifestyle changes, oral medications, and sometimes insulin.
- Gestational Diabetes
Occurs during pregnancy and is usually temporary, resolving after childbirth.
Increases the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life for both mother and child.
Managed with diet, exercise, and sometimes insulin or other medications if needed.
- Prediabetes
A condition where blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not high enough to be classified as diabetes.
Increases the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.
Often managed with lifestyle modifications to prevent progression to Type 2 diabetes.
- Maturity Onset Diabetes of the Young (MODY)
A rare genetic form of diabetes that usually appears in late childhood or early adulthood.
Caused by a mutation in a single gene affecting insulin production.
Often treated with lifestyle changes, oral medications, or insulin, depending on the specific mutation.
- Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults (LADA)
Often referred to as “Type 1.5 diabetes,” LADA has features of both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes.
Develops in adults and progresses more slowly than Type 1.
Individuals may initially manage with oral medications but eventually require insulin.
- Secondary Diabetes
Results from other medical conditions or treatments, such as chronic pancreatitis, Cushing’s syndrome, or steroid use.
Management depends on addressing the underlying cause and often includes insulin or other diabetes medications.
- Neonatal Diabetes
A rare form that occurs in the first six months of life, caused by genetic mutations affecting insulin production.
It may be transient or permanent, and treatment can include insulin or, in some cases, specific oral medications if a gene mutation is identified.
Each type of diabetes requires a unique approach to management, and understanding these distinctions is important for effective treatment and lifestyle planning.
