Get to Know Diabetes

Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 Diabetes often develops in young people, but can also occur in adults. The immune system targets cells in the pancreas that make insulin. So, either the body stops making insulin or makes very little.

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a condition where the body has a harder time regulating blood glucose (sugar) levels. The body breaks down foods that we eat into glucose and the glucose enters the bloodstream. Insulin works to remove glucose from the blood. With diabetes, you may not be able to produce insulin at all or your body doesn't use it properly.

Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 Diabetes is the most common form of diabetes. Nearly 95% of people with diabetes have type 2 diabetes. With type 2, the body does not use insulin properly and overtime the pancreas may not make enough insulin to help regulate blood glucose levels.

Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes is developed by pregnant women. Most women will return to normal after pregnancy, however, will need to continue monitoring blood glucose values. Women who have had gestational diabetes are at a higher risk for developing type 2 diabetes.

Who is at risk for type 2 diabetes?

You are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes if you:

Are overweight or are obese
Are 35 years or older
Have a family history of diabetes
Are African American, American Indian, Asian American, Hispanic/Latino, or Pacific Islander
Are not physically active
Have been diagnosed with prediabetes
Have a history of gestational diabetes