Diabetes

Diabetes is a chronic disease characterized by high blood sugar (glucose) levels. It occurs when the body does not produce or no longer produces enough insulin or is unable to use it properly.

Insulin is an essential hormone made by the pancreas. It allows sugar to enter the cells of the body to be used as a source of energy. If insulin cannot play its role, sugar builds up in the blood and the body can no longer use it. This can cause discomfort, for example:

• fatigue
• intense thirst
• irritability

This situation can also cause serious complications in some cases (for example, coma or death). Poorly controlled diabetes can also, in the long term, lead to a variety of other health problems, including:

• eye problems
• heart problems
• blood circulation problems
• kidney problems
• neurological disorders (altered sensation, loss of sensation)
• erectile problems
• mood disorders

There are three main types of diabetes:

• type 1 diabetes
• type 2 diabetes
• gestational diabetes or diabetes of pregnancy

Type 1 diabetes is less common. It occurs when the body stops producing insulin altogether. It usually occurs in children, teenagers and young adults, but can appear at any age. The person suddenly becomes very ill and needs to take insulin every day to survive.

Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes. It is often associated with:

• a family history
• being overweight
• a poor diet
• a lack of physical activity
• advanced age

In type 2 diabetes, insulin does not work as effectively. Treatment includes a healthy diet and regular physical activity. In addition, it is often necessary to take medications in tablet or injection form (including insulin), depending on the severity.

Gestational diabetes or diabetes of pregnancy occurs during pregnancy and usually disappears after delivery. However, it can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life. Treatment is necessary to prevent excessive weight gain and reduce complications in the pregnant person and their child. It is based on a healthy diet and regular appropriate physical activity during pregnancy. If these measures prove insufficient, insulin is the medication of choice during pregnancy.

Prevention plays a key role, especially for type 2 diabetes. In order to reduce the risk of developing this type of diabetes and help slow its progression, it is important to promote:

• a healthy diet
• regular physical activity
• adequate sleep
• good stress management

Quitting smoking can also help prevent the onset of type 2 diabetes and its cardiovascular complications.

Screening is for people who do not have symptoms of diabetes, but who have risk factors. For more information on screening, go to the Type 2 diabetes section.

If you think you are at risk of type 2 diabetes, you can consult:

• Info‑Santé 811
• a doctor
• a nurse
• a pharmacist

The health professional will be able to assess your level of risk, advise you on how to prevent the disease and, if necessary, order a screening test.