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Abstract
Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder marked by persistent hyperglycemia due to impaired insulin secretion, action, or both. It is a growing global health issue driven by urbanization, sedentary lifestyles, and obesity. DM includes type 1 (autoimmune beta-cell destruction), type 2 (insulin resistance and beta-cell dysfunction), gestational diabetes, and other specific types. Chronic hyperglycemia leads to serious complications such as retinopathy, nephropathy, neuropathy, heart disease, and stroke. Symptoms like excessive thirst, urination, and fatigue may appear late, making early diagnosis crucial through blood glucose and HbA1c tests. Management requires lifestyle changes, medications, monitoring, and patient education. Advances like new drugs and glucose monitoring technologies have improved care. Prevention through diet, exercise, and weight control remains key to reducing the diabetes burden.