What is Diabetes?
Diabetes is a disease in which your blood glucose, or blood sugar levels, are too high. Glucose comes from the foods you eat. Insulin is a hormone that helps glucose get into your cells to give them energy. With Type 1 diabetes, your body does not make insulin. With Type 2 diabetes, the more common type, your body does not make or use insulin efficiently. Without enough insulin, glucose stays in your blood. You can also have prediabetes. This means that your blood sugar is higher than normal, but not high enough to be called diabetes. Having prediabetes puts you at a higher risk of getting Type 2 diabetes.
Over time, having too much glucose in your blood can cause serious problems, such as damage to your eyes, kidneys, and nerves. Diabetes can also cause heart disease, stroke and even the need to remove a limb. Pregnant women can also get diabetes, which is called gestational diabetes.
Blood tests can show if you have diabetes. One type of test, called A1C, can also check how you are managing your diabetes. Exercise, weight control and sticking to your meal plan can help control your diabetes. You should also monitor your blood glucose level and take medicine if prescribed. Content Source: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases
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End All Diabetes Research is committed to funding a diverse portfolio of human and pet diabetes research and accelerating progress toward improved treatment options and ultimate cures through the generosity of philanthropic donors. Our shared vision — a world free from diabetes — is possible with your help and your partnership.
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