What is type 2 diabetes

Diabetes is a condition that causes your blood sugar (which can also be referred to as blood glucose) level to become too high. It is caused by your body not making enough or any of a hormone called insulin, or the insulin not working properly (insulin resistance). Insulin helps your body use sugar for energy. Without it, the level of sugar in your blood becomes too high. Type 2 diabetes can go undiagnosed for years.

Please see diabetes signs and symptoms for all information relating to symptoms.

If you are under the age of 40 and living with early onset type 2 diabetes the Your Journey Hub is there to support you.

Prevention of complications

Having diabetes can increase your chance of getting other health problems, including:

• heart attack and stroke, your healthcare professional may discuss taking a medication called a statin to reduce the risk of these complications
• increased risk of dementia
• kidney problems
• nerve damage and foot problems: diabetes can cause damage to nerves (peripheral neuropathy)
• sight problems: adults and children aged 12 or over will be offered diabetic eye screening every 1 to 2 years
• gum disease: regular check-ups with your dentist should help to reduce this risk
• diabetes can cause sexual problems in all genders through damage to nerves and blood circulation
• increased risk of certain types of cancer, for more information see diabetes and cancer

Diabetes does not cause any symptoms most of the time until damage to a part of body is done and is often too late. However, the chances can be minimised or prevented by keeping on top of the Diabetes control. If the diabetes is under control, you should not feel any different to anyone else.

For further information, see Diabetes UK.

What it means for everyday living

We know that everyone’s experience of diabetes is different. Whether you’re living with diabetes or care for a loved one who does, Diabetes UK can support you.

Their website is packed full of trusted information, developed by experts. From advice about treatments and what to eat, to practical guidance and emotional support, we’ve got you covered.

Page last reviewed: July 08, 2026
Next review due: July 08, 2027