What is type 2 diabetes?

Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin, or when the pancreas can’t produce enough insulin to maintain normal blood glucose levels.

Insulin is a hormone that allows glucose to enter your cells for energy, helping to manage blood sugar levels effectively. When insulin doesn’t work properly, blood sugar builds up in the bloodstream instead of fueling the body.

Type 2 diabetes - also called type 2 diabetes mellitus - can result from a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors. But while family history increases risk, environmental and behavioural factors also play a significant role¹. The rise in ultra-processed food consumption, reduced physical activity, and increasing body weight are among the most common contributing lifestyle factors^2,3.

Unlike type 1 diabetes, which is an autoimmune disease where the body attacks insulin-producing cells, type 2 is often preventable and manageable in the early stage (pre-diabetes) with lifestyle adjustments¹. Type 1 diabetes typically occurs in childhood or adolescence, whereas type 2 diabetes is more likely to develop in adulthood - though this is changing rapidly with rising rates in children and teens.

A number of factors increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes:

• Excess weight or obesity, particularly around the abdomen
• Lack of physical activity
• Family history of diabetes
• High blood pressure or cholesterol levels
• A previous diagnosis of gestational diabetes
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
• Aged over 45, though increasingly common in younger individuals
• Certain ethnic backgrounds, including South Asian, African-Caribbean, and Hispanic⁴

The signs of type 2 diabetes can be difficult to recognise because they often emerge gradually. People can also adapt to these changes without noticing that something more serious is developing.

Identifying symptoms early does however give individuals the best chance to diagnose diabetes, avoid complications, and maintain long-term health.

Some type 2 diabetes symptoms can be so mild they’re often overlooked or attributed to ageing, stress, or other health issues. Being aware of the signs can therefore support early intervention and better long-term health⁵.

Common early signs include:

• Increased thirst
• Frequent urination
• Fatigue
• Blurred vision
• Slow-healing cuts or bruises
• Tingling or numbness in hands or feet⁵

As the disease progresses, more severe symptoms can develop, including:

• Unexplained weight loss
• Chest discomfort
• Shortness of breath
• Recurrent infections, especially in the skin or urinary tract
• Erectile dysfunction in men

Catching diabetes early reduces the risk of developing complications. Early diagnosis enables people to make lifestyle changes or begin medication before irreversible damage occurs. Undiagnosed or poorly managed type 2 diabetes can lead to cardiovascular disease, kidney failure, vision loss, and neuropathy⁶.

Receiving a type 2 diabetes diagnosis can feel like a significant shift - but it’s also a turning point that can lead to better overall health.

With the right information, support, and guidance on diabetes medicines, many people are able to take control of the condition and build routines that promote long-term wellbeing.

With a personalised approach and support, living with diabetes can be integrated into daily routines⁷.

Core elements of diabetes self-management include:

• Healthy eating: low glycaemic  index foods, portion control, and balanced macronutrients help avoid blood sugar spikes.
• Regular physical activity: exercise helps lower blood glucose and improves insulin sensitivity³.
• Blood sugar monitoring: regular checks help you understand how different foods and activities affect your glucose levels⁸.
• Medication: if prescribed, this may include oral medications like metformin or injectable treatments such as GLP-1 receptor agonists or insulin⁹.

Living with a chronic condition like diabetes can take a toll on emotional wellbeing. Stress can elevate blood sugar levels and make disease management more challenging, increasing the risk of bacterial and fungal infections. Support from therapists, support groups, and diabetes educators can be helpful¹⁰

The long-term goal is to keep blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol within target ranges. These can help reduce the risk of:

• Cardiovascular disease
• Retinopathy (eye damage)
• Nephropathy (kidney disease)
• Neuropathy (nerve damage)
• Foot problems and infections

Living with type 2 diabetes means making mindful decisions throughout the day, not just during medical appointments.

Whether at work, home, or on holiday, planning ahead and knowing your needs can help you feel confident, stay well, and be physically active. With some planning and small adjustments, people can live well and navigate most situations with confidence.

Type 2 diabetes doesn’t stop when you leave the doctor’s office. Daily choices make a big difference. Here are examples of how people adapt their routines:

• At home: cooking healthy meals, organising medications, and using technology like continuous glucose monitors (CGMs)⁸.
• At work: keeping snacks and glucose meters handy, managing breaks for food or exercise, and communicating with HR if adjustments are needed.
• While travelling: bringing enough medication and supplies, adjusting for time zones, and carrying a doctor’s note for airport security.

Planning ahead can help prevent highs or lows in blood sugar:

• Monitor blood glucose before and after meals
• Learn the symptoms of low (hypoglycaemia) and high (hyperglycaemia) blood sugar¹¹
• Always carry a source of fast-acting carbohydrates
• Keep water and snacks available

You can enjoy parties and holidays while managing diabetes. Tips include:

• Eat a healthy snack before arriving to avoid overeating
• Choose small portions of starchy or sugary foods
• Limit alcohol and never drink on an empty stomach
• Let others know about your condition if appropriate

Discussing your condition openly with your doctor helps ensure your treatment for diabetes remains appropriate and effective. By preparing questions and sharing symptoms or concerns, you can make better use of your appointments and feel more supported.

Making the most of doctor appointments can significantly improve how well your diabetes is managed. Questions you might ask include:

• What should my target blood sugar levels be?
• Do I need to change my diet or physical activity?
• Should I see a dietitian or diabetes educator?
• What are the side effects of my medication?
• How will I know if my condition is worsening?

• Keep a health journal or digital tracker of your symptoms, readings, and medications
• Communicate openly about any emotional challenges or barriers
• Follow up regularly and get annual eye, foot, and kidney checkups

Personal stories from others living with type 2 diabetes can be a source of motivation, education, and comfort. These shared experiences often highlight the everyday challenges and victories that aren’t always captured in clinical guidance, and show that the condition can be successfully managed.

No one should feel alone in their diabetes journey. Particularly when real people from all walks of life manage type 2 diabetes successfully everyday. For example:

• A chef with diabetes who reworks his recipes to include healthier alternatives
• A teacher who walks during her lunch break to maintain blood sugar levels
• A father who created a family meal plan to benefit his family's health

Personal stories make a real difference. They offer hope, reduce stigma, and create a sense of belonging. Sharing your story can help others feel supported and more confident in managing their own condition.

Ways to connect with other people with type 2 diabetes include:

• Online forums or social media groups
• Local diabetes support meetings
• Community health events

Several factors can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. These include being overweight or obese, having a sedentary lifestyle, poor diet, and a family history of diabetes. Age (especially over 45), high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and a history of gestational diabetes also raise risk. Ethnicity can play a role, with higher risk in some groups.

Yes, many people with type 2 diabetes live full, healthy, and active lives. With proper management - such as healthy eating, regular exercise, taking prescribed medication, and monitoring blood sugar - it's possible to control the condition and prevent complications. Staying informed and working closely with healthcare providers is key to maintaining a good quality of life.

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the body attacks insulin-producing cells, leading to little or no insulin production. It usually develops in childhood or adolescence and requires daily insulin treatment. Type 2 diabetes, more common in adults, occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t produce enough. It’s often linked to lifestyle factors and can be managed with diet, exercise, and medication.