Diabetes is a chronic disease characterized by the presence of high levels of glucose in the blood (hyperglycemia) due to an alteration in the quantity or function of insulin.
Insulin is the hormone produced by the pancreas that allows glucose to enter cells and its consequent use as an energy source. When this mechanism is impaired, glucose builds up in the blood. In the long term, high blood sugar can lead to the development of certain complications, including eye, kidney, nerve, heart, and blood vessel complications.
In the presence of diabetes, one or more of the following phenomena occur:
- Body resistance to the action of insulin;
- A decrease or absence of insulin production
Source: International Diabetes Federation
