Daijiworld Media Network – Mumbai

Mumbai, May 30: Diabetes, a chronic and lifelong condition, continues to affect millions across the globe. It’s broadly classified into Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes — both marked by elevated blood sugar levels but differing in causes, treatment, and health risks. A common question that arises is: which type is more dangerous? Let’s explore the differences to understand the risks.

Diabetes occurs when the body either fails to produce enough insulin or cannot use it effectively. This hormone, produced by the pancreas, is essential to regulate blood sugar. When insulin function is impaired, sugar remains in the bloodstream, leading to potential complications across multiple organs.

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease, usually emerging suddenly during childhood or adolescence, though it can occur at any age. Here, the immune system mistakenly attacks the pancreas, destroying the insulin-producing cells. As a result:

• Insulin is nearly absent in the body.

• Daily insulin injections are mandatory for survival.

• Symptoms such as frequent urination, excessive thirst, weight loss, and blurred vision appear suddenly.

Most importantly, if insulin is skipped or diagnosis is delayed, it can trigger Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) — a potentially fatal condition where the body burns fat for energy, producing harmful ketones.

Danger: Type 1 diabetes is more dangerous in the short term due to the risk of DKA, which can lead to coma or death within hours if untreated.

Type 2 diabetes usually develops gradually, often after the age of 40, though it’s increasingly seen in younger people due to lifestyle changes. It is caused by:

• Insulin resistance (cells fail to respond properly to insulin)

• Inadequate insulin production

• Influencing factors include obesity, poor diet, inactivity, and genetics

Initially mild or even symptomless, Type 2 diabetes can go unnoticed for years. If left unmanaged, it may silently cause serious damage:

• Heart disease

• Kidney failure

• Stroke

• Vision loss

• Nerve damage

• Non-healing wounds

Danger: Type 2 diabetes is more dangerous in the long term, especially when undiagnosed or poorly controlled. It can progressively damage organs and result in severe complications.
Yes — but in different ways.

• Type 1 poses immediate life-threatening risks without insulin.

• Type 2 leads to chronic organ damage and complications over time.

Both types share similar long-term risks such as cardiovascular disease, kidney failure, and neuropathy.

Whether Type 1 or Type 2, diabetes is serious and requires careful, lifelong management. Early diagnosis, routine monitoring, medication, and healthy lifestyle choices are key to living a full life with diabetes.