Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes. In type 2
diabetes, either the body does not produce enough insulin or the cells
ignore the insulin. Insulin is necessary for the body to be able to use
glucose for energy. When you eat food, the body breaks down all of the
sugars and starches into glucose, which is the basic fuel for the cells
in the body. Insulin takes the sugar from the blood into the cells.
When glucose builds up in the blood instead of going into cells, it can
cause two problems:
•Right away, your cells may be starved for energy.
•Over time, high blood glucose levels may hurt your eyes, kidneys, nerves or heart.
Finding out you have diabetes is scary. But don't panic. Type 2
diabetes is serious, but people with diabetes can live long, healthy,
happy lives.
While diabetes occurs in people of all ages and races, some groups
have a higher risk for developing type 2 diabetes than others. Type 2
diabetes is more common in African Americans, Latinos, Native
Americans, and Asian Americans/Pacific Islanders, as well as the aged
population.
For more information on Type 2 Diabetes visit the American Diabetes Association
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