Diabetes

Diabetes is a disease in which the body cannot properly use insulin. The body either doesn’t make enough insulin, or can’t use the insulin properly. As a result, there is too much sugar in the blood. People with diabetes can take steps to control the disease and lower the risk of serious complications.

Diabetes can affect people in different forms:

Type 1 diabetes occurs when the pancreas does not make any insulin. People with Type 1 diabetes are usually diagnosed as children or adolescents, and depend on insulin therapy and other treatments to make up for the lack of insulin.

Type 2 diabetes occurs when the pancreas makes some insulin, but it’s not enough to meet the body’s needs. People with Type 2 diabetes are usually diagnosed as adults and are not dependent on insulin therapy.

Gestational diabetes can occur in pregnant women. While it doesn’t mean a woman had diabetes before pregnancy or will have diabetes after birth, the doctor’s advice should be followed for her to remain healthy. Those who develop gestational diabetes during pregnancy are at higher risk for Type 2 diabetes later in life.

For more diabetes information, including helpful videos, click here .

If you would like a downloadable resource, please refer to our booklet, Managing Your Diabetes.

Diabetes Resources

American Diabetes Association

National Diabetes Education Program (CDC)

Diabetes and Diabetes Prevention(NYSDOH)