Type 2 Diabetes

What is Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus?

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is the most common type of diabetes, which leads to high glucose levels due to the mismatch of insulin needs and production. Insulin is a hormone made by the pancreas; it helps glucose to get into cells to be used for energy.

In T2DM, the body either does not make enough insulin or does not use the insulin well, leading to high glucose levels in the blood with inadequate levels in the cells.

While type 2 diabetes mellitus can develop at any age, it most often occurs after the age of 45 years, in individuals with family history of diabetes and in the setting of excess body weight. Previous history of prediabetes or gestational diabetes when pregnant, also increases risk for developing T2DM. Patients can typically take steps to prevent or delay type 2 diabetes, if they are predisposed.