Type 2 diabetes is a progressive condition in which the body becomes resistant to the normal effects of insulin and/or gradually loses the capacity to produce enough insulin in the pancreas. We do not know what causes type 2 diabetes. Type 2 diabetes is associated with modifiable lifestyle risk factors. Type 2 diabetes also has strong genetic and family related risk factors.
Type 2 diabetes:
Is diagnosed when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin (reduced insulin production) and/or the insulin does not work effectively and/or the cells of the body do not respond to insulin effectively (known as insulin resistance)
Represents 85–90 per cent of all cases of diabetes
Usually develops in adults over the age of 45 years but is increasingly occurring in younger age groups including children, adolescents and young adults
Is more likely in people with a family history of type 2 diabetes or from particular ethnic backgrounds
For some the first sign may be a complication of diabetes such as a heart attack, vision problems or a foot ulcer
Is managed with a combination of regular physical activity, healthy eating and weight reduction. As type 2 diabetes is often progressive, most people will need oral medications and/or insulin injections in addition to lifestyle changes over time.