Diabetes Mellitus is a chronic metabolic disease characterized by elevated blood glucose (hyperglycemia). It is associated with an absolute or relative deficiency in the secretion and/or action of insulin.
There are three main forms of diabetes: type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes. Type 2 diabetes is the most common, accounting for approximately 85% to 90% of all cases. It is related to modifiable risk factors such as obesity or overweight, physical inactivity, and high-calorie diets of low nutritional value.
Methabolic syndrome is characterized by the presence of prediabetes in conjunction with one other cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factor (hypertension, upper body obesity or dyslipidemia)
World Diabetes Day
On World Diabetes Day 2019, PAHO/WHO joins partners around the world to promote that diabetes can be prevented and controlled. The theme for this year is Family and Diabetes. Approximately 62 million people are living with type 2 diabetes in the Americas. Most of these cases can be prevented through public health policies and lifestyle changes that support healthy eating, physical activity and healthy weights. All families are potentially affected by diabetes. It`s important to learn about the risk factors to prevent diabetes in your family. Read more