Is Diabetes Curable

Is Diabetes Curable ?

Diabetes mellitus is a common disease that affects a large percentage of the population of the United States. It is believed that over 16 million Americans are diagnosed with diabetes with a possible 5.4 million undiagnosed.

The prevalence of the disease is growing but there is now an awareness of its causes and risks.

Diabetes is not curable but can be controlled. There are different kinds of medication depending on the type and degree of the illness. But two factors remain constant -- a suitably modified diet and regular exercise.

Diabetes is a disorder of the metabolic system where the body does not produce insulin, or if it does, it is unable to utilize it properly. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas which is necessary to transport the glucose from foods to the cells. Glucose in the cells is essential for energy and proper functioning of all organs. When the glucose is not transported, it remains in the bloodstream where it builds to an unacceptably high level. Some of it spills into the bladder and is excreted in the urine. Hence the urine of a diabetic has a sweet smell.

There are 4 types of diabetes:

Type 1 known as insulin-dependant or juvenile-onset, where the body produces little or no insulin and has to rely on regular injections for survival and control.

Type 2 known as non-insulin or adult-onset which is the most common form of the disease, strongly associated with genetic predisposition and obesity.

Gestational diabetes, or pregnancy-induced diabetes. This condition, which afflicts pregnant women, usually corrects itself after birth.

Secondary diabetes caused by a host of external conditions.

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Is Diabetes Curable