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Diabetes

Diabetes: Understand, Manage and Live a Healthy Life

Diabetes is a chronic health condition that affects the way your body turns food into energy. It leads to high blood sugar (glucose) levels, which, if not managed, can cause serious health problems over time. The good news is that with the right knowledge, lifestyle changes, and medical care, you can manage diabetes and live a long, healthy life.

What Is Diabetes?

Diabetes occurs when your blood sugar is too high because your body either doesn’t produce enough insulin or can’t use insulin properly. Insulin is a hormone that helps glucose from food get into your cells to be used for energy.

Types of Diabetes

Type 1 Diabetes

An autoimmune condition in which the body attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. It usually develops in children, teens, or young adults.

Type 2 Diabetes

The most common type. The body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn't make enough insulin. It develops over time and is linked to lifestyle and genetics.

Gestational Diabetes

Occurs during pregnancy in women who did not have diabetes before. It usually disappears after delivery but increases future risk.

Causes & Risk Factors

Several factors can increase your risk of developing diabetes:

Family history
of diabetes
Overweight
or obesity
Physical
inactivity
Unhealthy
diet
High blood
pressure
High cholesterol
levels
Age 45
years or older

Key Symptoms

Common symptoms of diabetes may include:

  • Increased thirst
  • Frequent urination
  • Extreme hunger
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Fatigue
  • Blurred vision
  • Slow-healing sores
  • Frequent infections
View all symptoms

Did You Know?

Early detection and proper management can help prevent or delay serious complications.

Learn how to manage

When to See a Doctor

If you have symptoms of diabetes or are at risk, consult your doctor for testing and guidance.

Find a doctor near you

Helpful Resources

Download guides, meal plans, and tracking templates.

Explore resources