An in-depth report on the causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of type 2 diabetes. The diagnosis of type 2 diabetes is becoming increasingly common in U.S. kids and teens, especially in those who are overweight. Some studies report that between 8% and 45% of children who've been newly diagnosed with diabetes have the form known as type 2, depending on geographic location and racial/ethnic group. Type 2 diabetes usually occurs gradually. Most people with the disease are overweight at the time of diagnosis. However, type 2 diabetes can also develop in those who are thin, especially the elderly.

Family history and genetics play a large role in type 2 diabetes. Low activity level, poor diet, and excess body weight (especially around the waist) significantly increase your risk for type 2 diabetes.

Blood glucose levels

Blood glucose levels are mainly kept in check by insulin. Type 2 diabetes usually occurs as the result of a combination of problems with insulin activity (insulin resistance) and insulin secretion. Diet and exercise can help to combat both of these problems.

Type 2 diabetes symptoms may be mild and almost invisible, or easy to confuse with signs of aging. That's why it is very important to know how to spot them. Know type 2 diabetes symptoms and you may save your life.

The most common symptoms of type 2 diabetes are increased thirst or hunger, weight loss, fatigue, increased urination, blurred vision, sores that do not heal by themselves, bad circulation, irritability, leg pain and dry mouth.

Fatigue. If your cells are deprived of sugar, you may become tired and irritable.

Blurred vision. If your blood sugar level is too high, fluid may be pulled from your tissues - including the lenses of your eyes. This may affect your ability to focus.

Chest pain or shortness of breath. This may be a sign of heart or blood vessel problems.

Slow-healing sores or frequent infections. Type 2 diabetes affects your ability to heal and fight infections. Bladder and vaginal infections can be a particular problem for women.

Some people who have type 2 diabetes have patches of dark, velvety skin in the folds and creases of their bodies - usually in the armpits and neck. This condition, called acanthosis nigricans, is a sign of insulin resistance.

Risk factors for developing type 2 Diabetes

* age (over 45 years old)

* obesity (the number of people with diabetes in an unhealthy weight range is double that found in the population without diabetes)

Prevention

Regular physical activity and weight control are often crucial components of therapy for type 2 diabetes but oral medications and/or insulin injections may be required. If you're experiencing any of the type 2 diabetes symptoms, please contact your healthcare provider immediately for medical evaluation.