November 14 marks World Diabetes Day, a globally recognised event that attained official UN status in 2006. Initially established in 1991 by the International Diabetes Federation in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), the day addresses mounting concerns about the health and economic implications of diabetes. According to the WHO, diabetes is a chronic metabolic disease characterised by elevated blood glucose levels, leading to severe damage to the heart, blood vessels, eyes, kidneys, and nerves.

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There are two primary types of diabetes. Type 2 diabetes, prevalent in adults, arises when the body becomes resistant to insulin or fails to produce enough of it. On the other hand, Type 1 diabetes, previously known as juvenile or insulin-dependent diabetes, is a chronic condition where the pancreas produces little to no insulin.

Type 1 Diabetes And Type 2 Diabetes - Differences And Impact

 Causes And Onset:

  • Type 1 Diabetes: Typically diagnosed in childhood or adolescence, it results from the immune system mistakenly attacking and destroying insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. Genetic factors and environmental triggers may contribute.
  • Type 2 Diabetes: Primarily diagnosed in adulthood, it is characterised by insulin resistance and insufficient insulin production, influenced by genetics, lifestyle factors, and ageing.

Insulin Production:

  • Type 1 Diabetes: Individuals produce little to no insulin, necessitating lifelong insulin replacement through injections or pumps.
  • Type 2 Diabetes: Initially, the body produces insulin, but cells become resistant. Over time, insulin production may decrease, and treatment may involve lifestyle modifications, medications, or insulin.

Risk Factors:

  • Type 1 Diabetes: Genetic predisposition is a factor with no direct link to lifestyle. Viral infections and environmental triggers may contribute.
  • Type 2 Diabetes: Risk factors include family history, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, poor diet, age, ethnicity, gestational diabetes, and certain medical conditions.

Symptoms:

  • Type 1 Diabetes: Rapidly developing symptoms include excessive thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, extreme hunger, and fatigue.
  • Type 2 Diabetes: Symptoms may develop gradually and include increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, blurred vision, and slow wound healing.

Management:

  • Type 1 Diabetes: Requires daily insulin injections or pump use, continuous glucose monitoring, physical activity, and a balanced diet.
  • Type 2 Diabetes: Managed through lifestyle changes, medications, and, in some cases, insulin.

Prevention:

  • Type 1 Diabetes: Currently, no known prevention methods.
  • Type 2 Diabetes: Preventable through lifestyle modifications, including a healthy diet, regular exercise, weight management, and early intervention in at-risk individuals.

Complications:
Both types pose the risk of complications such as heart disease, kidney disease, nerve damage, and vision problems if blood sugar levels are poorly controlled.
 
While Type 1 diabetes requires lifelong insulin therapy, Type 2 is often linked to lifestyle factors and may be managed through a combination of lifestyle changes, medications, and, in some cases, insulin. Early diagnosis, personalised treatment plans, and ongoing support are essential for individuals with diabetes to lead healthy lives.