What causes diabetes?

Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas gland in the abdomen. It controls the use of glucose within the body.

The blood sugar level will rise if:

• the pancreas produces little or no insulin (Type 1 diabetes)
• the pancreas produces insulin, but it's inadequate for the body's needs and its effectiveness is reduced (Type 2 diabetes).

It's thought Type 2 diabetes is related to factors associated with a Western lifestyle, since it's most common in people who are overweight and who don't get enough exercise.

Gestational diabetes is brought about by the many hormone changes and demands placed upon the body during pregnancy.

Secondary diabetes is much like Type 2 diabetes. It's quite variable, depending on the underlying cause. It can be caused by damage to the pancreas (eg by alcohol), and drugs such as steroids and diuretics can impair insulin secretion from the pancreas.