Type 2 diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition that occurs when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin and / or the insulin does not work effectively to meet the body’s needs.
Type 2 diabetes:
- represents 85 to 90% of all cases of diabetes,
- is more likely to develop in people with a family history of type 2 diabetes or from particular ethnic backgrounds,
- usually develops in adults over the age of 45 years but is increasingly occurring in younger age groups,
- can be delayed or prevented in 58% of cases.
Symptoms of Type 2 diabetes
Symptoms of type 2 diabetes often go undiagnosed as they occur gradually. For some the first sign may be a complication of diabetes such as a heart attack, vision problems or a foot ulcer.
Symptoms may include blurred vision, skin infections, slow healing, tingling and numbness in the feet. Sometimes no symptoms are noticed at all.
Type 2 diabetes is more likely in people with a family history
of type 2 diabetes or from particular ethnic backgrounds
Management
As type 2 diabetes is often progressive, most people will need to take oral medications and/or insulin injections.
This is in addition to making lifestyle changes such as following a healthy eating plan, doing regular physical activity and having regular health checks.
- Usually develops in adults
- over the age of 45
Support
You are not alone! There is an extensive range of people, healthcare professionals, groups, communities and resources to support you on your journey so that you can live your life with diabetes.
To find out more about the available support, click here or call Diabetes NSW & ACT on 1300 342 238.
