About Diabetes Mellitus
The effects of diabetes will be known to most people living in the UK, either through their own condition or that of their family and friends.
In 2010 it was estimated that there were approximately 3.1 million people aged 16 or over living with diabetes (both diagnosed and undiagnosed) in England.
By 2030 this figure is expected to rise to 4.6 million with 90% of those affected having type 2 diabetes.
It is essential that this condition be diagnosed as early as possible to reduce potential complications and it is recognised that if left the condition will get progressively worse. It will not resolve without medical intervention.
There are 2 types of diabetes, Type 1 (insulin dependent) and Type 2 (non insulin dependent).
Type 1 diabetes is often diagnosed in childhood and young adults and occurs when the body does not produce insulin, necessitating in regular monitoring of blood sugar levels, dietary management and insulin being introduced into the body by injection, the frequency of which is dependent on the individual's lifestyle and blood sugar levels.
Type 2 diabetes is increasing in our population and is linked to lifestyle, particularly obesity. The body does not make sufficient insulin or becomes resistant to it. The condition if mild can be treated by diet alone, however the majority of people will require medication, usually in tablet form but in some cases insulin will be added.
Type 2 diabetes due to obesity can and has been reversed when the sufferer loses weight i.e. maintains a healthy diet and lifestyle.
Untreated or poorly managed diabetes of both types can have catastrophic outcomes such as heart disease, stroke, nerve damage to the peripheries (leading to amputation of the limbs), reduced vision, and blindness. It is known that diabetes is by far the most common cause of new onset blindness among people of working age.
