Conditions Guide

Diabetes

Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how your body processes blood sugar (glucose). It occurs when the body either doesn't produce enough insulin or can't use insulin properly, leading to high levels of glucose in the blood.

Featured Articles

Featured

Diabetes in Nigerian Children

Diabetes isn’t just an adult disease; it affects children, too. Here is how to spot risk and understand the issue.

30 Oct 2024 · Doctor-reviewed

Featured · Health News and Research

Are Black People More Susceptible to Diabetes?

Millions live with diabetes, yet in Africa, many cases go undiagnosed. Learn how to assess your risk and take steps to prevent this growing health concern.

30 Oct 2024 · Doctor-reviewed

Featured · Women's Health

Diabetes during Pregnancy

Diabetes during pregnancy can harm both mother and baby, increasing the risk of complications like high birth weight, preterm birth, and preeclampsia. Early detection and proper management are essential.

9 Jul 2025 · Doctor-reviewed

Diabetes: A Comprehensive Overview

Diabetes is a metabolic disorder that affects the way your body processes food for energy. When you eat, your body breaks down food into glucose (a type of sugar), which is then carried into your cells by insulin. However, in diabetes, either your body doesn't produce enough insulin or can't use it effectively. This leads to elevated glucose levels in the bloodstream, which, over time, can cause serious health complications

There are two main types of diabetes:

  • Type 1 Diabetes: This is an autoimmune condition where the body attacks and destroys the cells in the pancreas that produce insulin. It’s typically diagnosed in childhood or early adulthood.
  • Type 2 Diabetes: The most common form of diabetes, where the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t produce enough. It is often related to lifestyle factors and can develop at any age.

Risk Factors:

  • Family history of diabetes
  • Age (Risk increases as you get older)
  • Obesity or being overweight
  • Lack of physical activity
  • High blood pressure and high cholesterol

Complications: If left unmanaged, diabetes can lead to serious health problems, including heart disease, stroke, kidney damage, and nerve damage.

Prevention: Type 2 diabetes can often be prevented with a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, and maintaining a healthy weight.

Common symptoms

Increased thirstFrequent urinationExtreme hungerFatigueBlurred visionUnexplained weight loss

Health information worth keeping.

Get useful, medically reviewed health stories and practical guides in your inbox. No noise, no panic.