Understanding Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 Diabetes is a condition where your body doesn't use insulin properly — a problem called insulin resistance. Your pancreas initially makes extra insulin to compensate, but over time it can't keep up with the demand, causing blood glucose levels to rise.

Unlike Type 1 Diabetes (an autoimmune condition), Type 2 develops gradually and is strongly linked to lifestyle factors, genetics, and age. It's the most common form of diabetes, accounting for about 90-95% of all cases.

Type 2 Diabetes develops through a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental factors. While you can't change some risk factors, many are modifiable through lifestyle changes.

Type 2 Diabetes often develops gradually over years, which means many people have no obvious symptoms. That's why regular screening is so important, especially if you have risk factors.

Diagnosis is confirmed through blood tests. An HbA1c of 6.5% or higher, fasting blood glucose of 7.0 mmol/L or higher, or a random glucose of 11.1 mmol/L or higher with symptoms confirms diabetes.

Type 2 Diabetes treatment follows a stepwise approach, starting with lifestyle changes and adding medications as needed. The goal is to achieve and maintain good blood glucose control while managing cardiovascular risk factors.

Modern treatment also focuses on cardiovascular and kidney protection. Certain diabetes medications (like SGLT2 inhibitors and GLP-1 receptor agonists) have been shown to reduce heart disease and kidney disease risk, independent of glucose control.

Lifestyle changes are the foundation of Type 2 Diabetes management. Research shows that intensive lifestyle intervention can be more effective than medication alone in the early stages — and can even lead to diabetes remission in some cases.

Several classes of medications are available to treat Type 2 Diabetes. Treatment is individualised based on your specific needs, other health conditions, and preferences. Many people need a combination of medications over time.