What Is Diabetes? Understanding the Condition and How to Manage It
Diabetes is a condition in which the body can no longer produce enough insulin — or no longer uses it effectively. Insulin is the hormone that helps transport glucose (blood sugar) into your cells, where it is used for energy. When this process doesn’t work properly, glucose remains in the bloodstream, leading to high blood sugar levels.
📅 2025 | 💬 Health & Prevention | ⏱️ 5-minute read
In this article you’ll learn:
- What diabetes is and why insulin matters
- The difference between type 1 and type 2 diabetes
- Common complications of long-term high glucose levels
- How testing and lifestyle changes help you stay in control
What exactly is diabetes?
Insulin is produced in the pancreas — an organ located behind the stomach. If the pancreas cannot produce enough insulin, or if the body cannot use insulin properly, glucose builds up in the blood. Over time, consistently high glucose levels can cause damage throughout the body.
Untreated or poorly controlled diabetes increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, eye problems, and kidney complications. This is why early detection, regular monitoring, and lifestyle adjustments are essential.
The two main types of diabetes
Type 1 diabetes
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition in which the pancreas produces little or no insulin. It often begins in childhood or early adulthood, and people with type 1 require daily insulin therapy. About 1 in 10 people with diabetes have this type.
Type 2 diabetes
Type 2 diabetes typically develops later in life — most often after the age of 40. Genetics play a role, but lifestyle factors such as limited physical activity or being overweight significantly increase the risk. Type 2 diabetes is far more common and develops gradually over many years.
Living with diabetes
Diabetes management is highly personal — medications, diet, and lifestyle changes vary from person to person. For people with type 1 diabetes, insulin therapy is essential. For many with type 2 diabetes, diet adjustments, regular movement, and healthy routines can make a big difference.
Why measuring your glucose is essential
Monitoring your blood sugar helps you understand how your body responds to food, movement, stress, and medication. Measuring is knowing — and knowing your glucose level allows you to adjust your diet, activity, or treatment more confidently.
Movement makes a difference
Even small changes in daily activity can improve blood sugar levels. A 30-minute walk each day, or cycling a few times a week, can significantly support your body’s ability to manage glucose effectively. Many people with type 2 diabetes experience noticeable improvements with consistent exercise.
Test your glucose easily at home
Regular glucose testing helps you understand your body better and stay in control of your health. With the On Call® Extra Glucose Meter Starterpack, you can measure your blood sugar quickly, accurately, and comfortably at home — without needing a doctor’s appointment.
This starter pack includes everything you need to begin testing right away, giving you reliable insights into your glucose levels whenever you need them.
A condition you can manage
Living with diabetes isn’t always easy, but knowledge, measurement, and healthy routines make the journey far more manageable. Every step towards better glucose control is a step toward better long-term health.