WHAT CAUSES DIABETES?

Diabetes is a chronic condition that occurs when the body is unable to regulate blood sugar (glucose) levels properly. It can result from problems with insulin production, insulin action, or both. Below are the primary causes and contributing factors for the two most common types of diabetes:

1. Type 1 Diabetes

• Cause: Autoimmune Reaction
• The immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas.
• This leads to little or no insulin being produced.
• Triggers:
• Genetics: Family history increases the risk.
• Environmental Factors: Viral infections may trigger the immune response.
• Key Characteristic: Often develops in childhood or early adulthood, but it can occur at any age.

2. Type 2 Diabetes

• Cause: Insulin Resistance
• The body becomes resistant to insulin, or the pancreas doesn’t produce enough insulin to keep blood sugar levels in check.
• Contributing Factors:
• Lifestyle: Poor diet, physical inactivity, and obesity.
• Genetics: A family history of diabetes increases susceptibility.
• Age: Risk increases after age 45.
• Other Conditions: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and metabolic syndrome.
• Key Characteristic: Develops gradually and is more common in adults, but increasingly seen in younger individuals due to lifestyle changes.

3. Gestational Diabetes

• Cause: Hormonal Changes During Pregnancy
• Placental hormones can create insulin resistance, raising blood sugar levels.
• Risk Factors:
• Overweight or obesity.
• Family history of type 2 diabetes.
• Previous gestational diabetes.
• Ethnic background (higher risk in certain groups).

Other Contributing Factors for Diabetes Development

• Genetic Disorders: Mutations affecting insulin production or function (e.g., MODY - Maturity Onset Diabetes of the Young).
• Pancreatic Disorders: Diseases like pancreatitis or pancreatic cancer can impair insulin production.
• Medications: Long-term use of certain drugs, like steroids, can increase the risk of diabetes.
• Hormonal Disorders: Conditions like Cushing’s syndrome or acromegaly can contribute to elevated blood sugar levels.

Prevention and Management

While type 1 diabetes cannot currently be prevented, the risk of type 2 diabetes can often be reduced by:

• Maintaining a healthy weight.
• Eating a balanced diet low in refined sugars and unhealthy fats.
• Staying physically active.
• Monitoring blood sugar levels if you are at risk.

Early diagnosis and proper management can significantly reduce complications and improve quality of life for people with diabetes.