Understanding Diabetes From Diagnosis to Thriving
Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disease characterized by elevated levels of blood glucose
(blood sugar). It occurs when the body either does not produce enough insulin, does not effectively
use the insulin it produces, or both. Insulin is a hormone made by the pancreas that acts like a key,
allowing glucose from food to enter cells and be used for energy.
When this system breaks down, glucose accumulates in the bloodstream instead of reaching cells.
Over time, high blood sugar damages blood vessels and nerves throughout the body, leading to serious
complications affecting the heart, kidneys, eyes, and limbs.