Which statement correctly describes Type 2 diabetes?

Which statement correctly describes Type 2 diabetes?

• A. Produces inadequate amounts of insulin, controlled by diet or oral hypoglycemics
• B. Insulin dependent; autoimmune destruction
• C. Onset in childhood
• D. Absence of insulin

Answer: (C)

Type 2 diabetes is driven by insulin resistance, where the body's cells don’t respond well to insulin, and the pancreas can’t keep up with the demand, leading to higher blood glucose. Because there isn’t autoimmune destruction of the insulin-producing cells, there isn’t an absolute lack of insulin—many people with Type 2 still make some insulin, especially early on. This is why management often starts with lifestyle changes and oral medications that improve insulin sensitivity or reduce glucose production, rather than immediately needing insulin injections. The typical description is adult-onset, commonly linked to obesity and inactivity, though it can occur in younger people as risk factors accumulate. Onset in childhood is not the usual way Type 2 presents, which is why the classic picture emphasizes insulin resistance with a relative, not complete, deficiency and a tendency toward adult onset.

Type 2 diabetes is driven by insulin resistance, where the body's cells don’t respond well to insulin, and the pancreas can’t keep up with the demand, leading to higher blood glucose. Because there isn’t autoimmune destruction of the insulin-producing cells, there isn’t an absolute lack of insulin—many people with Type 2 still make some insulin, especially early on. This is why management often starts with lifestyle changes and oral medications that improve insulin sensitivity or reduce glucose production, rather than immediately needing insulin injections. The typical description is adult-onset, commonly linked to obesity and inactivity, though it can occur in younger people as risk factors accumulate. Onset in childhood is not the usual way Type 2 presents, which is why the classic picture emphasizes insulin resistance with a relative, not complete, deficiency and a tendency toward adult onset.