How many diabetes are there?

There are mainly three types of diabetes:

1. Type 1 diabetes: It is an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells (beta cells) in the pancreas. This leads to a complete deficiency of insulin, a hormone that helps glucose enter the cells for energy. People with type 1 diabetes need to take insulin through injections or an insulin pump to control their blood sugar levels.

2. Type 2 diabetes: This is the most common form of diabetes, affecting millions of people worldwide. In type 2 diabetes, the body becomes resistant to the effects of insulin, and the pancreas also has difficulty producing enough insulin. This combination leads to high blood sugar levels. Type 2 diabetes can often be managed through lifestyle modifications such as a healthy diet, regular exercise, and weight control. In some cases, medications or insulin may also be necessary.

3. Gestational diabetes: This type of diabetes develops during pregnancy. It occurs due to hormonal changes during pregnancy that affect insulin sensitivity. Gestational diabetes usually resolves after childbirth, but women with gestational diabetes have an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes in the future.

It's important to note that there are other rare forms of diabetes as well, such as monogenic diabetes and secondary diabetes caused by other medical conditions or genetic syndromes.