Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes. In type 2 diabetes, either the body does not produce enough insulin or the cells ignore the insulin. Insulin is necessary for the body to be able to use sugar. Sugar is the basic fuel for the cells in the body, and insulin takes the sugar from the blood into the cells. When glucose builds up in the blood instead of going into cells, it can cause two problems:
Right away, your cells may be starved for energy.
Over time, high blood glucose levels may hurt your eyes, kidneys, nerves or heart. While diabetes occurs in people of all ages and races, some groups have a higher risk for developing type 2 diabetes than others.
Type 2 diabetes is more common in African Americans , Latinos, Native Americans, and Asian Americans/Pacific Islanders as well as the aged population.
Did You Know?
Having a family history of diabetes increases your risk for type 2 diabetes.
Having diabetes while pregnant increases your risk for type 2 diabetes.
Having high blood pressure increases your risk developing type 2 diabetes.
Being 45 years old or older increases your risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Being overweight or obese increases your risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
