Diabetes management The most important forms of diabetes are characterized by decreases in, or the plete absence of, the production of insulin (Type 1 diabetes), or decreased sensitivity of body tissues to insulin (type 2 diabetes). Diabetes mellitus type 2 is often associated with obesity and hypertension and elevated cholesterol (bined hyperlipidemia), and with the condition Metabolic syndrome (also known as Syndrome X, Reavan's syndrome, or CHAOS). There is also a strong inheritable geic connection in type 2 diabetes: having relatives (especially first degree) with type 2 is a considerable risk factor for developing type 2 diabetes. The fraction of type 2 diabetics in other parts of the world varies substantially, almost certainly for environmental and lifestyle reasons, though these are not known in detail. Other pancreatic problems, including trauma, pancreatitis, or tumors (either malignant or benign), can also lead to loss of insulin production. Prompt proper treatment usually results in full recovery, though death can result from inadequate treatment, delayed treatment or from a variety of plications. The second goal is often addressed (in developed countries) by support and care from teams of diabetic health workers (physician or PA, nurse, dietitian, certified diabetic educator, ...). Type 2 is initially treated by adjustment in diet and exercise, and by weight loss, especially in obese patients. Thus, the patient also needs to undergo treatment involving immunosuppressants, which reduce immune system activity. The most important forms of diabetes are characterized by decreases in, or the plete absence of, the production of insulin (Type 1 diabetes), or decreased sensitivity of body tissues to insulin (type 2 diabetes). Diabetes management. There is also a strong inheritable geic connection in type 2 diabetes: having relatives (especially first degree) with type 2 is a considerable risk factor for developing type 2 diabetes. The adult incidence of Type 1 is similar to that for children [1], which is one of the reasons for changing the preferred term. Insulin enables most body cells (about 2/3 is the usual estimate, including muscle cells and adipose tissue) to absorb glucose from the blood for use as fuel, for conversion to other needed molecules, or for storage. Nowadays, with improved diagnostic support, type-1 (insulin-dependent) diabetics can join all kinds of activities. |