What causes diabetes in human beings?

There are two main types of diabetes: type 1 and type 2.

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease that occurs when the pancreas, which produces insulin, is damaged. Insulin is a hormone that helps glucose (sugar) get into cells for energy. Without enough insulin, glucose stays in the blood, leading to high blood sugar levels.

The exact cause of type 1 diabetes is not fully understood, but there is likely a combination of genetic and environmental factors involved. Some risk factors for type 1 diabetes include:

- Family history of the disease

- Certain genetic markers

- Viral infections

- Vitamin D deficiency

- Age (most people with type 1 diabetes are diagnosed before age 20)

Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes, affecting more than 30 million people in the United States. It is a chronic disease that occurs when the body either does not make enough insulin or does not use insulin well.

Some of the risk factors associated with type 2 diabetes are:

- Obesity

- Family history of type 2 diabetes

- Age (over 45 years old)

- Physical inactivity

- High blood pressure

- High cholesterol

- Certain medical conditions, such as gestational diabetes or polycystic ovary syndrome

- Certain medications, such as corticosteroids or beta-blockers

While type 2 diabetes can be managed with lifestyle changes, such as diet, exercise, and weight loss, in some cases, medication or insulin may also be necessary.