Frequently Asked Questions

I am in my 40's, slim, and am not fond of eating sweet foods, can I still develop DM?
People more than 30 years of age, can still develop DM, regardless of the kind of food they eat. This is so because of the influence of genetics. If there is a history of DM in the family, chances are, you will develop DM in the future.

Why is there a need for insulin shots in patients with Type I DM, will oral medications not suffice?
Patients with Type I DM have an absolute need for insulin replacement since they have either low or absent insulin secretion which is needed for the metabolic functions of the body. Unlike in Type II DM, where there is insulin production but it may not be enough, or the body itself is resistant to insulin, oral glucose-lowering agents may suffice.

What is Insulin-dependent Diabetes?
Type I diabetes used to be called insulin-dependent diabetes because patients are ‘dependent' on insulin to be able to function normally. Hence, they take insulin shots everyday. However, it isn't used anymore since there are also patients with Type II DM, who require insulin shots as part of their medications.

How are patients with DM treated?
Treatment options basically aims to have a strict blood sugar control to avoid complications, and of course, patient education. In general, those with Type I DM require multiple doses of insulin. Those with Type II DM may be managed with diet and exercise alone or coupled with oral glucose-lowering agents, insulin, or a combination of both.

What are other risk factors for developing DM?
Risk factors for DM include family history, obesity, age, race/ethnicity, history of diabetes during pregnancy or a big baby, hypertension, high cholesterol levels and polycystic ovary syndrome.

What organ in the body is responsible for insulin secretion?
Insulin is produced and secreted by the pancreas, particularly its b -cells. The release of insulin in the body is due to the high amounts of glucose in the blood.