Chapter02 Fundamental Diabetes Science

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These audio videos have been created using artificial intelligence (AI) tools, based on the original content from the book “”माझा मधुमेह, माझे नियंत्रण“ i.e. My Diabetes, My Control.

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Diabetes is a disorder of energy production in the body. It occurs mainly due to a lack of insulin or resistance to insulin. Insulin is the key to the door of the cells. If it is absent, blood sugar rises. If the lock is faulty, cells do not get energy.

In Type 1 diabetes, insulin production stops completely. This affects about 15%. In Type 2, insulin does not function efficiently. This affects about 85%. Although diabetes can be controlled with diet, exercise, medicines, and insulin, it cannot be completely cured.

Even when sugar rises, the initial symptoms are often mild. These include excessive thirst, frequent urination, and weight loss. However, if neglected for a long time, serious complications like heart disease, kidney failure, blindness, and limb loss may occur. Genetic predisposition combined with modern lifestyle stress, sedentary habits, and an improper diet are major causes of rising diabetes. The risk is higher in people with obesity, but slim people, small children, and men can also develop it.

By 2030, one in every four to six Indians is expected to have diabetes—this will become a national public‑health crisis. Cholesterol and blood sugar are interrelated and controlling both is essential.

To bring diabetes under control, medicine alone is not enough. Knowledge and lifestyle changes are crucial. This is especially true around diet and activity.