What is the main enemy of diabetes
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The Main Enemy of Diabetes: Insulin Resistance and Inflammation
Insulin Resistance: The Primary Culprit
Insulin Resistance in Type 2 Diabetes
Insulin resistance is a significant factor in the development of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM). In T2DM, tissues such as skeletal muscle, adipose tissue, and liver become less responsive to insulin, leading to elevated blood glucose levels. This resistance triggers an increased demand for insulin, causing pancreatic β-cells to compensate by increasing insulin secretion and mass. However, this compensation is not sustainable, leading to β-cell failure and the progression of T2DM .
Genetic and Environmental Factors
The genetic basis of T2DM often points to impaired insulin secretion as a primary factor, although insulin resistance remains a critical acquired problem. Lifestyle factors such as obesity and lack of exercise exacerbate insulin resistance, highlighting the interplay between genetic predisposition and environmental triggers .
Inflammation: A Key Contributor
Role of Inflammatory Cytokines
Inflammation plays a crucial role in both the onset and complications of diabetes. In T2DM, chronic inflammation and the activation of monocytes enhance insulin resistance and contribute to the loss of insulin secretory function by islet cells. Elevated levels of inflammatory markers, such as C-reactive protein and various cytokines, are commonly observed in insulin-resistant states.
Obesity and Inflammation
Obesity is closely linked to increased inflammation, which in turn exacerbates insulin resistance. Adipose tissue in obese individuals secretes inflammatory cytokines that activate monocytes, further enhancing insulin resistance and increasing the risk of developing T2DM.
Hyperglycemia: The Resulting Threat
Complications of Chronic Hyperglycemia
Chronic hyperglycemia, a hallmark of diabetes, leads to numerous long-term complications affecting the eyes, kidneys, nerves, heart, and blood vessels. These complications are primarily driven by the persistent high blood sugar levels that damage various tissues and organs over time .
Cardiovascular Disease
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a major complication of diabetes, with more than 70% of patients with T2DM dying from cardiovascular causes. The epidemic of T2DM is thus closely followed by an epidemic of diabetes-related CVD, underscoring the severe impact of chronic hyperglycemia on overall health.
Conclusion
The main enemies of diabetes are insulin resistance and inflammation, both of which play pivotal roles in the onset and progression of the disease. Insulin resistance, exacerbated by genetic and environmental factors, leads to elevated blood glucose levels and β-cell failure. Inflammation further enhances insulin resistance and contributes to the complications associated with chronic hyperglycemia. Addressing these factors through lifestyle changes and medical interventions is crucial in managing and preventing diabetes and its associated complications.
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