Glucose levels in the body are controlled by the hormone insulin, produced by cells in the pancreas. In type 2 diabetes (about 90% of all cases), insulin is produced by the pancreas, but the body’s tissues do not respond to it, which can lead to beta cell burnout. Affecting the over-40’s, this preventable type is strongly linked to obesity and is controlled by tablets and/ or lifestyles measures. In type 1, the insulin-producing cells are destroyed by the immune system, so the additional insulin is essential. It affects the young and must be constantly monitored with a regime of glucose tests and insulin injections. It receives scant attention and yet long-term complications include heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, blindness and limb amputations.
