What is the Origin of Type 2 Diabetes?

The term "Diabetes Mellitus" (from Greek diabetes, to pass through, and Latin mellitus, honey-sweet) has ancient origins, referring to the sweet taste of urine. The classification into Type 1 and Type 2 emerged in the mid-20th century, distinguishing the autoimmune-mediated insulin deficiency (Type 1) from the primarily insulin resistance-driven form (Type 2).

What is the Mechanism of Type 2 Diabetes?

The central mechanism involves peripheral tissues, particularly muscle, liver, and fat, failing to respond adequately to insulin signaling, necessitating compensatory hyperinsulinemia. Over time, the sustained demand overwhelms the pancreatic beta cells, leading to their exhaustion and dysfunction, which results in insufficient insulin production. This dual defect of resistance and inadequate secretion prevents proper glucose uptake and exacerbates systemic hyperglycemia.

Type 2 Diabetes ∞ Area

Type 2 Diabetes

Meaning

Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by hyperglycemia, resulting from the body’s ineffective use of insulin, a condition known as insulin resistance, combined with a progressive decline in pancreatic beta-cell insulin secretion. It is a major public health concern linked to lifestyle factors and genetic predisposition. Uncontrolled T2DM leads to severe microvascular and macrovascular complications, impacting multiple organ systems. Management requires careful metabolic interventions.