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Fact Sheet on Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 Diabetes is a chronically progressive disease in which the body either does not produce insulin, does not efficiently use insulin or produces an inadequate amount of insulin to help the body get energy into the cells.

  1. Significance

    • The World Health Organization says that 90 percent of the estimated 171 million diabetics in the world are type 2 diabetics. A diabetic dies every 10 seconds, according to WHO.

    Causes

    • Although genetics may play a role in a person's predisposition to type 2 diabetes, according to the American Diabetes Association, obesity plays the major role in those who become diabetic.

    Symptoms

    • Symptoms of type 2 diabetes include increased thirst, increased hunger, increased urination, weight loss, a feeling of weakness and blurry vision.

    Treatment

    • Type 2 diabetes may be treated with oral medications and insulin injections, but the primary treatment is diet and exercise, which can help to reverse the disease.

    Warning

    • Untreated type 2 diabetes can lead to heart disease, kidney disease, hypertension, stroke, nerve damage and poor healing of wounds. The ADA recommends that if you have any symptoms of diabetes, you see your health care provider immediately.

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