Diabetes is a condition that causes a person’s blood sugar level to become too high.
There are two main types of diabetes:
- Type 1 diabetes is caused by the body’s immune system attacking and destroying the cells that produce insulin. Insulin is a hormone released by the pancreas to help control levels of sugar in the blood. It can occur at any age but usually appears before the age of 40. It is still not clear what causes type 1 diabetes to develop. It is not caused by diet or lifestyle in the same way as type 2 diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is always treated with insulin.
- Type 2 diabetes is caused by the body not producing enough insulin, or the body’s cells not reacting to insulin. It is the most usual type and accounts for around 90% of all diabetes. It is treated with dietary changes, medication and sometimes insulin.
You can find out if you are at risk of developing type 2 diabetes and what steps you should take by visiting the Diabetes UK website and completing a short questionnaire.
Diabetes can increase the risk of developing other conditions, such as heart disease. It can be managed effectively, and many people lead a healthy, active life.
NHS online support for people with type 2 diabetes
Healthy Living is a free online NHS service for people living with type 2 diabetes, providing information to support you to manage your condition. The service also gives advice on your emotional and mental wellbeing as well as making and keeping up healthy choices.
NHS online support for people with type 1 diabetes
MyType1Diabetes is an NHS service which provides free, online information, advice, and resources, including e-learning courses, for people living with Type 1 diabetes. Visit the MyType1Diabetes website.