Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body’s cells do not respond effectively to insulin (insulin resistance). Over time, the pancreas may also be unable to produce enough insulin to maintain normal blood glucose levels.

If left uncontrolled, type 2 diabetes leads to persistently high blood glucose and the development of symptoms that can progress to serious long-term complications.

Type 2 diabetes most commonly affects people over the age of 45 years, although it is increasingly being diagnosed in younger individuals. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (2017–18), type 2 diabetes affects almost one million Australians, representing approximately 5.3% of the population, and accounts for 85–90% of all diabetes cases.

Causes, symptoms and risk factors of type 2 diabetes

Type 2 diabetes develops when the body becomes resistant to insulin and/or when the pancreas does not produce sufficient insulin. The exact cause is not fully understood, but genetic and lifestyle factors play a significant role.

Symptoms of type 2 diabetes include:

Excessive thirst and frequent urination

  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Fatigue and weakness
  • Blurred vision
  • Persistent hunger
  • Slow-healing cuts or wounds
  • Skin infections and itching
  • Mood changes
  • Dizziness
  • Leg cramps

Some of the risk factors for type 2 diabetes include:

  • Prediabetes
  • Family history of type 2 diabetes in a first-degree relative
  • Increasing age, particularly over 45 years
  • Overweight or obesity
  • High blood pressure (hypertension)
  • High cholesterol
  • Cardiovascular disease, including heart attack, angina or stroke
  • Low levels of physical activity
  • Smoking
  • Poor dietary habits, including diets high in fat, sugar, salt and processed foods
  • Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) who are overweight
  • History of gestational diabetes
  • People of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, Pacific Islander, Māori, Asian, Indian, Middle Eastern or North African heritage (aged 35 years and over)

Prevention and management of type 2 diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is largely preventable, and in many cases its onset can be delayed or even reversed, particularly with early intervention, weight loss and sustained lifestyle changes.

Key strategies to help prevent and manage type 2 diabetes include:

  • Achieving and maintaining weight loss
  •  Engaging in regular aerobic exercise, such as brisk walking (start with 10 minutes daily and aim for at least 30 minutes most days)
  • Reducing carbohydrate intake (approximately 20–150 grams per day, individualised to your needs)
  • Increasing intake of fibre-rich foods
  • Making water your main drink
  • Practising portion control
  • Choosing low glycaemic index (GI) foods
  • Managing stress levels
  • Regularly monitoring blood glucose levels

Type 2 diabetes can be successfully managed and, in some cases, reversed

With appropriate lifestyle changes, type 2 diabetes can be prevented, effectively managed and, in some cases, reversed. Newer anti-diabetic medications are also available that help improve blood glucose control while promoting weight loss. Please ask your GP for a referral to Dr Imran and arrange a consultation to discuss your individual treatment options.