Diabetes Mellitus is a chronic condition characterised by elevated blood sugar levels. It occurs in two forms: Type 1 and Type 2. Insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas, helps glucose from the bloodstream enter body cells to be used for energy.
In Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus, the body produces insufficient insulin. In Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, the does not utilise the insulin effectively, known as insulin resistance. As a result, glucose remains in the bloodstream.
While Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus is more common among children in Singapore1, the incidence of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus is rising, partly due to a increased childhood obesity1.
Source: 1PubMed