8 de março de 2019 Author : Pires Soares In type 2 diabetes there is insulin resistance , meaning the cells do not respond to insulin. The person therefore needs a larger amount of this hormone to maintain the same quantity of sugar in the blood. What are the characteristics of type 2 diabetes? Although the huge importance of genetic factors associated with the disease has been recognised, the main reasons for the increase in the number of new cases are: A sedentary lifestyle; Obesity; Excessive calorie intake. These factors are all lifestyle-related and are responsible for greater insulin resistance. People with type 2 diabetes may initially show higher than normal blood sugar. Insulin levels go down over time, as the pancreas can no longer produce so much insulin and blood sugar levels rise. This is why it may be necessary to start insulin medication (even though type 2 diabetes is not insulin dependent). Meet the endocrinology team from Hospital da Luz network. The content published in the Health Guide is intended for the general public and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not replace individual medical assessment, diagnosis, or personalized clinical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. The content is produced or reviewed by physicians and other healthcare professionals at Hospital da Luz and is based on the knowledge available at the time of publication or the most recent update, as indicated at the beginning of each item.
