Diabetes
The pancreas produces a hormone (insulin), which is responsible for regulating the level of sugar in the blood. When the level of sugar becomes abnormally high, the resulting condition is known as diabetes.
There are two main types of diabetes, which affect seniors:
Type 1 Diabetes, which used to be called “insulin-dependent” or “juvenile diabetes”, is caused by the lack of insulin production by the pancreas.
Type 2 Diabetes, which used to be called “non insulin-dependent” diabetes, is also known as “adult onset”. It is believed to be related to life style habits.
| Causes/Risk Factors | Symptoms | Consequences | Treatment |
| Type 1
Cause is unknown but possibilities include:
Type 2 Cause believed to be related to life styles. Susceptible people are:
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Type 1 – insulin therapy
Type 2 – depends on what part of the body has defects (e.g. pancreas, liver, muscle)
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| Note: Not all people who develop diabetes display symptoms; hence, it may go undetected for years. | |||
