What Is Type 2 Diabetes?
Type 2 diabetes is a chronic metabolic condition in which the body either doesn't produce enough insulin or doesn't use it effectively. Insulin is the hormone responsible for moving glucose (sugar) from your bloodstream into your cells, where it's used for energy. When this process breaks down, blood sugar levels rise — and over time, high blood sugar can damage organs, nerves, and blood vessels.
Unlike Type 1 diabetes, which is an autoimmune condition typically diagnosed in childhood, Type 2 develops gradually and is strongly linked to lifestyle and genetic factors.
What Causes Type 2 Diabetes?
Type 2 diabetes develops when cells in the muscles, fat, and liver become insulin resistant — meaning they stop responding properly to insulin signals. The pancreas compensates by producing more insulin, but eventually it can't keep up with the demand.
Key risk factors include:
- Excess body weight, especially fat stored around the abdomen
- Physical inactivity — sedentary lifestyles reduce insulin sensitivity
- Family history — genetics play a significant role
- Age — risk increases after age 45, though younger people are increasingly affected
- Prediabetes — blood sugar levels that are elevated but not yet in the diabetic range
- Gestational diabetes during pregnancy can increase later risk
Recognising the Symptoms
Type 2 diabetes often develops slowly, and many people have it for years before being diagnosed. Common symptoms include:
- Increased thirst and frequent urination
- Unexplained fatigue
- Blurred vision
- Slow-healing cuts or bruises
- Tingling, numbness, or pain in the hands or feet
- Recurring infections (skin, gum, or bladder)
Because symptoms can be subtle, routine blood tests are one of the most reliable ways to detect the condition early.
How Is It Diagnosed?
Doctors use several blood tests to diagnose Type 2 diabetes:
| Test | Normal Range | Diabetic Range |
|---|---|---|
| Fasting Blood Glucose | Below 5.6 mmol/L | 7.0 mmol/L or above |
| HbA1c (3-month average) | Below 42 mmol/mol | 48 mmol/mol or above |
| Random Blood Glucose | Below 7.8 mmol/L | 11.1 mmol/L or above |
Managing Type 2 Diabetes
The good news is that Type 2 diabetes is highly manageable — and in some cases, significant lifestyle changes can bring blood sugar levels back into a healthy range. Management typically involves a combination of:
- Diet changes — reducing refined carbohydrates, increasing fibre, and choosing lower glycaemic index foods
- Regular physical activity — even moderate exercise improves insulin sensitivity
- Medication — metformin is commonly the first prescribed medication; others may be added over time
- Blood sugar monitoring — tracking levels helps identify patterns and triggers
- Regular check-ups — monitoring for complications involving kidneys, eyes, and cardiovascular health
When to See a Doctor
If you're experiencing symptoms of diabetes, or if you have multiple risk factors, speak to your GP about getting tested. Early diagnosis makes a significant difference in preventing long-term complications. Type 2 diabetes is a serious condition, but with the right support and lifestyle changes, people can live full, healthy lives.