Type II diabetes is epidemic

Annual laboratory screening of fasting glucose and HgA1c identifies risk, and the need for timely intervention

Diabetes is a condition where the islet cells of the pancreas can become diseased through autoimmune attack and/or the effects of uncontrolled hyperglycemia (high blood sugar). Insufficient insulin frequently begins from and coincides with target cell insulin resistance. The result is a constantly elevated blood glucose level, that over time causes serious health complications through the buildup of advanced glycation end products in blood capillaries and other tissues. Glycation products stiffen arteries and clog capillaries in the kidneys, eyes, nerve tissues and extremities. Over time glycation leads to cardiovascular disease, blindness, peripheral neuropathy, and a high rate of end stage kidney disease contributing to the ultimate cause of death.

While a “silent” disease with few noticeable physical symptoms in the early days of progression, there is a great deal of suffering in the later days. This is a condition to take seriously, and not approach from a place of denial.

Historically called “childhood diabetes,” type I diabetes is first an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the islet cells producing insulin. A development that is now recognized to also sometimes have sudden onset in adults. This is the least common form of diabetes. “Insulin-dependent diabetes” can also develop in the more common type II diabetes, due to advanced glycation end products disabling insulin production.

Type II diabetes, historically “acquired adult diabetes”, used to be found primarily in overweight and obese adults, but is now commonly found in overweight and obese children as well. Diagnosed early, type II diabetes can be reversed. Those with diabetes who approach lifestyle, body morphology, behaviors and other treatment plans with serious discipline have every reason to expect to live a normal life span. More on optimal diabetes management, one of Dr. Clark’s treatment areas of special interest.