What is diabetes?

Diabetes is a long‑term endocrine condition in which the body is unable to regulate blood glucose (sugar) effectively. This happens when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin or when the body becomes resistant to insulin’s effects.

A normal fasting blood glucose level is typically below 6.0 mmol/L. Diabetes is diagnosed when blood glucose levels remain consistently above the healthy range.

There are several types of diabetes, with Type 1, Type 2, and secondary diabetes being the most common.

How diabetes is classified

Type 1 diabetes

• An autoimmune condition where the body stops producing insulin. It usually develops in childhood or early adulthood but can occur at any age.

Type 2 diabetes

• The most common form. The body becomes resistant to insulin or does not produce enough. Often linked to genetics, weight, and lifestyle factors.

Secondary diabetes

• Caused by another medical condition or medication, such as pancreatic disease, steroid use, or hormonal disorders.

Prediabetes

• Blood glucose levels are higher than normal but not yet in the diabetic range. Early intervention can prevent progression.

What’s the outlook for diabetes?

With proper management, most people with diabetes live full, healthy lives. However, untreated or poorly controlled diabetes can increase the risk of:

• Heart disease
• Stroke
• Kidney disease
• Nerve damage
• Vision problems
• Foot complications

Regular monitoring and personalised treatment significantly reduce these risks.

What are the symptoms of diabetes?

Symptoms may include:

• Increased thirst
• Frequent urination
• Fatigue
• Blurred vision
• Unexplained weight loss
• Slow‑healing wounds
• Recurrent infections

Some people, especially with Type 2 diabetes, may have no symptoms at all.

How is diabetes diagnosed?

Diagnosis is made using simple tests such as:

• HbA1c test (average blood glucose over 3 months)
• Fasting blood glucose
• Oral glucose tolerance test
• Random blood glucose test

Your doctor may also check cholesterol, kidney function, and blood pressure to assess overall metabolic health.

What causes diabetes?

Causes vary depending on the type:

• Type 1: autoimmune destruction of insulin‑producing cells
• Type 2: genetics, excess weight, inactivity, age, and hormonal factors
• Secondary diabetes: medications, pancreatic disease, endocrine disorders

How is diabetes treated?

Treatment may include:

• Lifestyle changes (diet, activity, weight management)
• Oral medications
• Injectable therapies
• Insulin
• Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM)
• Regular blood tests and reviews

An endocrinologist tailors treatment to each person’s needs.

Which doctor should I talk to?
Diabetes is best managed by an endocrinologist, often working alongside diabetes specialist nurses, dietitians, and your GP.