Types of diabetes mellitus: Prevention is the Cure

There are several different types of diabetes mellitus. Type 1 usually emerges before age 30 and tends to appear suddenly. The other type of diabetes mellitus is referred to as Type 2 which is much more common, with about 90% of people with diabetes having the Type 2 form. Type 2 usually starts later in life, usually after the age of 40. The onset is more gradual and blood glucose levels are usually more stable. Most patients with Type 2 diabetes are obese.

The different types of diabetes mellitus are frequently referred to using terms that do not really define them very well. Type 1 diabetes is frequently referred to as juvenile diabetes or insulin-dependent diabetes. Type 2 is sometimes called non-insulin-dependent or adult diabetes. These terms are not used as often as they used to because they tend to confuse people. People with type 2 diabetes eventually may require insulin, and there is becoming a growing epidemic of type 2 disease in children.

Types of diabetes mellitus: Prediabetes

Prediabetes is more of a new diabetic term rather than a new type of diabetes mellitus. Prediabetes is a term used for medical conditions in which blood glucose levels are between 100 and 125 mg/dl, which is higher than normal but not enough to be diagnosed with diabetes. Previously this condition was referred to as impaired fasting glucose and impaired glucose tolerance. It is believed that approximately 41 million Americans have prediabetes. Without treatment, most of these people will eventually develop type 2 diabetes within approximately 10 years.

Similar to people with diabetes, individuals with prediabetes have an increased risk of coronary heart disease (CHD). The best antidote to prediabetes is to attain a healthy body weight, check for signs of diabetes, and try to modify other risk factors such as cigarette smoking, high blood pressure and elevated cholesterol levels.

Educating yourself about the potential types of diabetes mellitus and its early prevention, may go a long way toward preserving your long-term health and longevity.

Information adapted from The Johns Hopkins Medical Guide To Health After 50

Additional Information and webpage by Paul Susic MA Licensed Psychologist Ph.D. Candidate