Diabetes type 2 is chronic disease affecting over 30 million individuals in the United States. Scientists have found multiple genes that influence this disease and progression. It is diagnosed many times at a routine fasting physical. Patients can live with elevated blood sugar for years prior to diagnosis. A fasting blood sugar greater than 126 is diagnostic of diabetes. Usually, a follow-up test named hemoglobin A1C is performed and this assesses the blood sugar control in the previous three months. Diabetes type 2 affects the body’s ability to use sugar for fuel. Either the body doesn’t make enough insulin or either the insulin does not work properly. The individual many times feels hungry for a higher percentage of time due to the inability of the body to use glucose properly. The glucose becomes unavailable to the major organs because of the metabolic defects and this over time causes damage that can be irreversible.

Diabetes 2 is a strong risk factor for the development of obesity, coronary artery disease, chronic kidney disease, blindness and stroke. Sometimes, type 2 diabetes can be reversed with a strict diet and nutrition. Most patients, however, will need medications to help control their blood sugar. Controlling diabetes can prevent long term complications but earlier diagnosis and prevention is becoming a higher priority at wellness visits. Studies have shown that much of the damage occurs 5-7 years prior to the diagnosis of type 2 diabetes.

Today, we know that diabetes is associated with eight core defects. Clinicians today have more options than ever before to prevent and treat diabetes type 2. New medications target these core defects allowing us to help win against the diabetes disease process. We work with patients not only with medications but also diet and exercise to help achieve glucose targets in order to protect future health complications.