What is Diabetes?

Diabetes mellitus is a group of diseases characterized by high levels of blood glucose resulting from defects in insulin production, insulin action, or both. Diabetes can be associated with serious complications and premature death, but people with diabetes can take steps to control the disease and lower the risk of complications (Centers for Disease Control). More than 90 percent of people with diabetes have type 2. In this disease, the body loses its ability to make efficient use of insulin to turn glucose (sugar) into energy. In type 1 diabetes, cells of the pancreas that produce insulin are destroyed. Without injections of insulin, the body of a person with type 1 diabetes cannot turn blood glucose into energy. For information on symptoms, diagnosis, and prevention click here.

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Research News

Featuring Harvard Medical School and Affiliated Hospitals

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Health & Science Articles

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Scientific Reports

From HMS Faculty Newsletter Focus

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Glimpse into Complications
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