Diabetes & Obesity

Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by insulin resistance and progressive beta-cell dysfunction. The condition leads to persistent hyperglycemia and affects multiple organ systems. T2DM most commonly occurs in adults over 45 years, though increasing rates are observed in younger populations and adolescents, particularly among obese individuals. The disease is closely linked to obesity, with adipose tissue promoting insulin resistance through inflammatory mechanisms and free fatty acid release.

Obesity is a chronic, multisystem disease defined by excessive adipose tissue accumulation (BMI ≥30 kg/m²) that impairs health and quality of life. It serves as a major driver of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome, certain cancers, and musculoskeletal disorders. The condition results from complex interactions between genetic predisposition, environmental factors, dietary habits, physical inactivity, and neuroendocrine regulation.

Metabolic Syndrome is a cluster of interconnected cardiometabolic risk factors that significantly increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and stroke. The syndrome is diagnosed when at least three of the following criteria are met: abdominal obesity (increased waist circumference), elevated triglycerides, reduced HDL cholesterol, elevated blood pressure, and elevated fasting glucose or insulin resistance.

Weight Management represents a critical preventive strategy for individuals at risk of developing type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Prediabetes, characterized by impaired fasting glucose (100-125 mg/dL) or impaired glucose tolerance (HbA1c 5.7-6.4%), affects a substantial portion of adults and represents a window of opportunity for intervention. Without intervention, 5-10% of individuals with prediabetes progress to diabetes annually.