In some families the genes which cause Diabetes 1 are passed on through the generations. However, only a small number of those who have the genes which cause this insulin-dependent form will actually develop the condition.

Of those in this group who do eventually develop diabetes Type 1 it might be as a result of a severe viral infection which damaged the pancreas earlier in life.

Those inheriting the genes which cause Diabetes Type 2, the non-insulin dependent form, are more likely to develop Type 2 Diabetes.

Obesity the a major cause of diabetes

Obesity is the main cause of this form of Diabetes in those who have inherited the relevant genes.

Among this group,diabetes might be caused or aggravated by some diseases such as pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) or thyrotoxicosis (over activity of the thyroid gland also known as Graves Disease).

Certain drugs such as corticosteroids and diuretics might also be a cause of Diabetes in this group. Pregnancy, in women who have inherited the relevant genes, might also bring this condition to light.

The incidence of both forms of Diabetes is growing in the UK. Insulin dependent (Type 1) Diabetics now number over 100,000. Non-insulin dependent (Type 2) Diabetes is much more common and affects possibly over a million people.

Both groups are growing at an alarming speed and the condition is becoming more widely spread among children.

Diabetes Diagnosis

Diagnosis concerning the presence of Diabetes is obtained from a sample of urine which is tested for the presence of an abnormal quantity of glucose. This is then confirmed by testing a blood sample, taken after an overnight fast, for abnormally high glucose levels.

Treatment is concerned principally with relieving the symptoms of Diabetes, preventing complications and extending life. Blood glucose levels are kept as near to normal as possible by maintaining normal weight, by taking regular exercise, managing the diet and, if necessary injections of insulin.

In those with Type 1, insulin-dependent Diabetes, injections are usually given between 1 and 4 times a day. However in a number of cases, various new methods of administrating these injections are being advised.

These are still in their infancy but are growing in popularity and efficiency. Some forms of treatment are far less invasive than they used to be. Doctors should be consulted about these new methods of taking insulin for those with Type 1 Diabetes.

In addition, those with Type 1 Diabetes must follow a special diet in which carbohydrates are strictly limited and the intake spread over the day according to a timetable. This helps to avoid fluctuations in blood-glucose levels.

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