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Different Types of Diabetes

  • Category: Blog
  • Posted On:
  • Written By: Kirby Medical Center

Understanding Diabetes

Diabetes is a group of chronic health conditions that affect the body’s ability to turn food into fuel. People living with diabetes either can’t make enough insulin or can’t use insulin effectively, resulting in too much sugar in the bloodstream—which can increase one’s risk for heart disease, vision loss, and kidney damage.


In recognition of National Diabetes Month, we're here to shed some light on the different types of this chronic health condition.

Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes is believed to be brought on by an autoimmune reaction that prevents the body from producing its own insulin. For those living with type 1 diabetes, insulin has to be taken daily. More often than not, this form of diabetes develops rather quickly and is commonly diagnosed during childhood or young adulthood.


Unfortunately, there is no way to prevent this form of diabetes,

Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes, affecting about 90% of those who have had a diabetes diagnosis. With this form of diabetes, your body is still producing its own insulin, but it's not using it efficiently enough to regulate your blood sugar levels.


This form of diabetes develops slowly over time and is most commonly diagnosed in adults. Type 2 diabetes can be effectively prevented by leading an active lifestyle and eating a balanced diet.

Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes that can develop during pregnancy and typically goes away after giving birth. This form of diabetes typically happens because of the changes in hormone levels during pregnancy, which inhibit your ability to produce or effectively use insulin.

Contact Kirby Medical Center

At Kirby Medical Center, we are dedicated to helping our community learn how to stay healthy and safe. If you are concerned about your health risks and the types of vaccines that are right for you, contact Kirby Medical Center at 217-762-2115 to learn more about how we can assist with all your healthcare needs.