What is Type 2 Diabetes?
Type 2 diabetes is a condition where your body either doesn't make enough insulin or doesn't use it properly. Insulin is a hormone that helps glucose move from your blood into your cells for energy. When this doesn't work right, glucose builds up in your blood instead of being used for fuel.
Causes and Risk Factors
Type 2 diabetes can be caused by a combination of situations. Eating excessive unhealthy food, not getting enough physical activity, and being overweight all increase your risk. Genes also play a role if others in your family have diabetes.
Common Symptoms
Symptoms can develop gradually. Many people do not realize they have the disease. Many common signs include feeling extremely thirsty, the need to pee constantly, feeling tired all the time, having blurry visions, and cuts/sores that slowly heals.
Key Statistics
Over 37 million people in the U.S. have diabetes, and about 90-95% of them have Type 2 diabetes. Many are not aware that they even have the disease.
"Of all the forms of inequality, injustice in health is the most shocking and inhumane"
Martin Luther King, JR.