Diabetes definition
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Diabetes Definition and Key Characteristics
Diabetes, also known as diabetes mellitus, is a group of chronic metabolic diseases where blood glucose (sugar) levels are higher than normal. This condition is mainly caused by problems with insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas that helps move glucose from the blood into the body’s cells for energy or storage. In diabetes, either the body does not produce enough insulin, cannot use insulin effectively, or both, leading to high blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia) Clark1982Basevi2011T2010+5 MORE.
Causes and Types of Diabetes
There are two main types of diabetes:
- Type 1 Diabetes: This type is caused by the immune system attacking and destroying the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. People with type 1 diabetes have an absolute lack of insulin and need insulin therapy to survive Clark1982Basevi2011T2010+4 MORE.
- Type 2 Diabetes: This more common type is caused by a combination of the body’s resistance to insulin and an inadequate insulin response. It develops gradually and can often be managed at first with lifestyle changes, but may eventually require medication or insulin Clark1982Basevi2011T2010+4 MORE.
Other forms of diabetes exist, but these two account for the vast majority of cases.
Symptoms and Diagnosis of Diabetes
Common symptoms of diabetes include frequent urination, excessive thirst, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, blurred vision, and sometimes increased hunger. Some people may not notice symptoms for a long time, especially in type 2 diabetes, where high blood sugar can develop slowly and go undetected Basevi2011T20104+4 MORE.
Diabetes is diagnosed by measuring blood glucose levels, either while fasting, after a glucose challenge, or by using the A1C test, which reflects average blood sugar over several months Basevi2011T20104+3 MORE.
Complications and Risks Associated with Diabetes
If not well managed, diabetes can cause serious long-term complications. These include damage to the eyes (retinopathy), kidneys (nephropathy), nerves (neuropathy), heart, and blood vessels. People with diabetes are at higher risk for heart attacks, strokes, kidney failure, blindness, and limb amputations. Other issues can include high blood pressure and abnormal cholesterol levels Clark1982Basevi2011T2010+5 MORE.
Conclusion
In summary, diabetes is a chronic disease marked by high blood sugar due to problems with insulin production or action. It can lead to serious health complications if not managed properly. Early detection, lifestyle changes, and appropriate treatment are essential to prevent or delay these complications and improve quality of life for those affected Clark1982Basevi2011T2010+6 MORE.
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Most relevant research papers on this topic
Diagnosis and Classification of Diabetes Mellitus
Diabetes is a group of metabolic diseases characterized by hyperglycemia caused by defects in insulin secretion or insulin action, leading to long-term damage and dysfunction of various organs.
Diagnosis and Classification of Diabetes Mellitus
Diabetes is a group of metabolic diseases characterized by hyperglycemia caused by defects in insulin secretion, insulin action, or both, leading to long-term damage and dysfunction of various organs.
Diagnosis and Classification of Diabetes Mellitus
Diabetes mellitus is a group of metabolic diseases characterized by hyperglycemia caused by defects in insulin secretion, insulin action, or both, leading to long-term damage and dysfunction of various organs.
Definition, Diagnosis and Classification of Diabetes Mellitus
Diabetes mellitus is a syndrome characterized by hyperglycemia and impaired metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, due to an absolute or relative deficiency of insulin secretion and/or insulin action.
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