There are two main types of diabetes, known as Type 1 and Type 2. Type 1 diabetes is far more rare and results from the pancreas ceasing to function. Usually Type 1 diabetes will appear in a child by age 5, but in some cases it's onset can be delayed until adulthood. There is no "cure" for Type 1 diabetes, there is only treatment and management of the condition.

Type 2 diabetes on the other hand often does not appear until adulthood, most commonly in the 45 - 64 age demographic. For this reason, Type 2 diabetes was often referred to as "Adult-Onset diabetes," a term that is being used less now that Type 2 diabetes is on the rise in children and teens. Type 2 diabetes accounts for about 95% of all diabetes cases in the US. 

So what exactly is Type 2 diabetes? What causes it and how can it be prevented or managed? Harvard Medical School lays it out very clearly in the article below.

The greatest health crises in Gridley, Biggs, Live Oak and the surrounding towns, are the same as in the entire world: the overweight crisis and the resulting diabetes crisis. 

Data has been gathered in the United States since the 1920's on how long people live. Thanks to the advances in medical care, people kept living longer and longer - until recently.

Our bodies are a complex structure with many interconnected layers and parts that allow the body to work. Our cells and organs are incredibly sophisticated in working together within the different systems of the body so that we can function the way we’re supposed to. But when one part of our body isn’t working correctly, it can have a domino effect on our body – the way we feel and our quality of life. This is true with diabetes, a common disease, that is treatable.

We mostly read about people with Type 2 Diabetes; this is an adult onset Diabetes where the pancreas slows down its function and doesn’t put out enough insulin to maintain a normal blood sugar. If it comes to a point where the pancreas cannot keep up with the weight and size of the person, which is requiring more insulin, the person becomes a Type 2 Diabetic.