Diabetes

Diabetes is a disease characterised by

high blood glucose levels

. Normally, these levels are controlled by

insulin

, a hormone produced by the pancreas. There are three main types of diabetes:

Type 1 Diabetes

is usually diagnosed early in life.

Type 2 Diabetes

is the most common form of diabetes and usually occurs in adulthood. For many people (but not all) it can be prevented through living a healthy lifestyle.

Gestational Diabetes

develops during pregnancy in a woman who does not have diabetes. An

Endocrinologist

is a diabetes specialist and often works with a team with allied health professionals including nurse practitioners, dieticians, primary care and exercise physiologists to manage diabetes. Various blood tests are used to diagnose diabetes. Although diabetes is a chronic (lifelong) condition, it can be controlled. Long-term aims are to reduce symptoms and prevent diabetes-related complications such as blindness, heart disease, kidney failure and amputation of limbs. These goals are accomplished through: blood pressure and cholesterol control; medication or insulin use; self-testing of blood glucose levels; exercise; foot care; meal planning and weight control; education and support.

Diabetes NZ is a good place to start for any general questions or support regarding diabetes.