Diabetes is a disease that is marked by high levels of blood glucose, resulting from defects in insulin
production, action or both. If not treated properly, it can lead to serious complications. There are two
types of diabetes; Type 1 and Type 2.
Type 1 Diabetes is most commonly referred to as juvenile diabetes or insulin dependent and affects
roughly 5% of all diagnosed cases of diabetes. Type 1 Diabetes occurs when the body does not produce
enough insulin to regulate blood glucose levels. Type 1 Diabetes can affect individuals at any age, but
it is more common among children and young adults. The only way to control glucose levels for people
who suffer from Type 1 Diabetes, is to inject or pump insulin.
Type 2 Diabetes, or non-insulin dependent diabetes, affects approximately 90%-95% of all diagnosed
cases of diabetes. It occurs when the body does not use insulin properly, and therefore needs insulin in
order to function properly. Type 2 diabetes normally affects individuals with older age, family history of
diabetes, obesity, history of gestational diabetes, impaired glucose metabolism, and physical inactivity.
Certain ethnic groups are at a greater risk of developing this type of diabetes such as; African Americans and Hispanic/Latino Americans.
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