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Type 2 diabetes – Independent medicines & health information Type 2 diabetes
Why learn about type 2 diabetes?
Almost one million people in Australia have type 2 diabetes, but about half of these people may not know that they have it.
In type 2 diabetes (sometimes called adult- or maturity-onset diabetes), the body’s usual ways of controlling blood glucose levels do not work properly, leading to high levels of glucose (a type of sugar) in the blood. Find out about type 2 diabetes and what happens to your blood glucose in this condition.
High blood glucose levels can cause a range of different symptoms, which may cause problems and complications over time if they are not controlled.
Find more about what causes type 2 diabetes, how it is diagnosed and how it is monitored, and who is at risk of the condition.
Apart from type 2 diabetes, there are also two other main types of diabetes:
In type 1 diabetes, the body makes little or no insulin. Gestational diabetes is similar to type 2 diabetes, but only occurs in women during pregnancy. To find out more, read our information on type 1 diabetes and gestational diabetes.Treatments for people living with diabetes usually include both lifestyle changes and diabetes medicines.
- Find out how healthy eating and physical exercise can help you to manage your diabetes.
- Read our in-depth information on the diabetes medicines available in Australia, including metformin, sulfonylureas and insulin, as well as the 'gliptins', the 'glitazones', exenatide, acarbose and repaglinide. Learn how these medicines work to help control blood glucose, and their possible side effects and interactions.
- Learn about tests for diabetes and blood glucose monitoring.
Support groups and a dedicated team of health professionals can help treat and manage your diabetes. Find out who can help and where to find the help you need.
Reference
Diabetes Australia; Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. Diabetes management in general practice: Guidelines for type 2 diabetes. 17th edn, 2011/2012. www.diabetesaustralia.com.au/en/For-Health-Professionals/Diabetes-National-Guidelines/#National-Evidence-Based-Guidelines-for-the-Management-of-Type-2-Diabetes
Date published: 2011-11-14 00:00:00
Reasonable care is taken to provide accurate information at the date of creation. This information is not intended as a substitute for medical advice from a qualified health professional. Health professionals should rely on their own expertise and enquiries when providing medical advice or treatment. Where permitted by law, NPS disclaims all liability (including for negligence) for any loss, damage or injury resulting from reliance on or use of this information. Read our full disclaimer.
References to brands should not be taken as an endorsement by NPS.
© 2012 National Prescribing Service Limited. Funded by the Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing.
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