Which type of diabetes is characterized by insulin resistance?

Type 2 diabetes is characterized by insulin resistance, which means that the body's cells do not respond effectively to insulin. As a result, the pancreas produces more insulin to compensate for this resistance. Over time, the pancreas may become unable to keep up with the increased demand for insulin, leading to higher blood glucose levels. This form of diabetes is often associated with obesity, physical inactivity, and genetic factors.

In contrast, Type 1 diabetes is primarily an autoimmune condition where the body attacks and destroys insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas, leading to little or no insulin production. Gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy when the body cannot produce enough insulin to meet the increased demands, but it is not characterized by insulin resistance in the same way as Type 2. Latent autoimmune diabetes is often mistaken for Type 2 diabetes due to its gradual onset; however, it is characterized by autoimmune destruction of the pancreatic cells and may later require insulin therapy.

Understanding these differences is crucial for appropriate management and treatment of these diabetes types.