Diabetes comes in two forms: Type 1 and Type 2. Type 2 diabetes is a condition that occurs when your body doesn’t produce enough insulin or use insulin properly.

According to the American Diabetes Association (ADA) from a 2018 study, a person with Type 2 diabetes spends approximately $17,000 per year on health care. Of that, about $9,600 is spent on diabetes-related care.

“Type 2 diabetes is absolutely an epidemic,” said Dr. Michael Sheehan, an endocrinologist at Marshfield Clinic Health System.

The complications associated with diabetes can lead to serious health issues, including:

• Cardiovascular disease
• Nerve damage
• Kidney disease
• Eye problems
• Poor circulation
• Limb amputations

Type 1 vs. type 2 diabetes

Type 1 diabetes occurs when the pancreas no longer produces insulin. Insulin allows the body’s cells to use glucose as energy. Type 1 usually begins in childhood or early adulthood. It is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system destroys insulin-making cells. It is the most common chronic disease in childhood.

Type 2 also can start in childhood, but it is more common in adults.

Why people get diabetes?

Both genetic and environmental factors contribute to the development of diabetes. However, lifestyle choices play a more significant role in Type 2 diabetes. Key risk factors include being over age 45, obesity, certain ethnic backgrounds, a family history of diabetes, and a sedentary lifestyle.

Diabetes treatment

While Type 1 diabetes requires insulin therapy, Type 2 diabetes can often be managed through lifestyle changes such as weight loss, a balanced diet, and regular exercise. If these measures are insufficient, medications or insulin therapy may be necessary.

Dr. Sheehan emphasizes the importance of a low-calorie, low-carbohydrate diet and regular physical activity, recommending 30 minutes of exercise daily at a brisk pace, gradually increasing to one hour.

“Small changes that we make in daily activities add up to big results,” said Lisa Knoll, certified lifestyle coach, Marshfield Clinic Health System. “A 10-minute brisk walk after a meal can make us feel better and empower us to make even more healthy changes.”

Pay attention to these symptoms

Common symptoms of diabetes include:

• Intense thirst
• Frequent urination
• Nausea
• Abdominal pain
• Fatigue
• Blurry vision
• Potential weight loss

The most reliable method for diagnosing is through a fasting blood sugar test. A fasting blood glucose level of 99 mg/dL or lower is considered normal, while 100-125 mg/dL indicates prediabetes, and 126 mg/dL or higher confirms diabetes.

If you’re concerned about your risk for diabetes, talk to your primary care provider.