Information about diabetes
Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disease. It is characterised by a permanently elevated blood sugar level. It is often also referred to as diabetes. Diabetes is divided into type 1 and type 2.
Since type 1 diabetes usually begins before the age of 20, it is also known as “juvenile diabetes”. Type 1 diabetes is triggered by an autoimmune disease. In this case, the immune system attacks the body. The insulin-producing cells of the body are destroyed by the pancreas.
The most common form of diabetes mellitus is type 2, which usually begins after the age of 30 and is therefore nicknamed “adult-onset diabetes”. In some cases, however, young people can also be affected. Triggers for type 2 diabetes include obesity, lack of exercise and hereditary factors.
How many people are affected?
Worldwide, it is estimated that about 415 million people between the ages of 20 and 79 suffer from diabetes mellitus. In Germany, it is assumed that there are about 7.6 million type 2 diabetes patients. This results in a prevalence of about 7-8%. Since the numbers are expected to rise, one can now speak of a real widespread disease. Most problematic, however, are the concomitant and secondary diseases of diabetes. These include strokes, heart attacks and diabetic foot.
As a type 2 diabetic, the course of therapy and the disease itself can be influenced well. However, it is essential to accept the disease and to have sufficient knowledge about it. Use the chance to live a good life even with diabetes and become an expert on your disease!
