Until the beginning of the 20th century, type 2 diabetes was fairly rare. It now affects more than 14 million Americans. Healthcare professionals believe that type 2 diabetes has become so common because increasing numbers of people are eating more, exercising less, and becoming overweight. In addition, people are living longer, so there are more people than ever before over the age of 40, and thus more people at risk for developing type 2 diabetes.
Some people may be more likely to develop type 2 diabetes because they have various risk factors, such as their genetic make-up, body type, and activity level.
People who carry a genetic trait for type 2 diabetes and who are overweight may develop type 2 diabetes more rapidly. In these people, extra body fat may cause cells to become resistant to the effects of insulin (called insulin resistance). When this happens, the pancreas attempts to compensate by producing more insulin. Eventually, the pancreas may not be able to keep up with the body’s demand for increased levels of insulin, causing an abnormal increase in blood sugar levels. This condition is called impaired glucose tolerance, which can potentially lead to type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease.
Fortunately, there are steps you can take that may help manage your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Some people are able to avoid type 2 diabetes by making changes to their lifestyle, such as eating less and exercising more regularly. It is also important to look at other type 2 diabetes risk factors that you may have. Ask your doctor or healthcare professional how to manage your risk factors.
If you have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes and diet and exercise cannot adequately control your blood sugar, effective medication is available. Glucophage XR is a convenient and effective way to help lower high blood sugar levels. See your doctor or healthcare professional to find out if treatment with Glucophage XR may be right for you.