What is Type 2 Diabetes?
Millions of Americans have been diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes, which accounts for up 95% of diabetes cases in the United States.
People with type 2 diabetes produce insulin, unlike those with type 1 diabetes. However, type 2 diabetics are unable to adequately use insulin either because the pancreas does not produce enough insulin or the body does not properly process it. Because of this, glucose (sugar) is unable to enter the body’s cells, builds up in the bloodstream, and prevents normal cell function.
Over time the lack of insulin in the body can lead to health problems:
- Dehydration: High glucose levels can cause frequent urination, which leads to a large loss of water and dehydration.
- Diabetic Coma: Life-threatening diabetic comas can occur when a type 2 diabetic becomes severely dehydrated or ill.
- Kidney Damage: Kidney damage can occur without treatment and carries a substantial risk of kidney failure.
- Damage to the Body: High glucose levels can damage nerves and blood vessels. Type 2 diabetes can also lead to hardening of large arteries that may cause strokes or heart attacks. Additionally, poor blood circulation especially in the feet, which can lead to a higher risk of slow-healing ulcers and infections. Because of this, type 2 diabetics are at increased risk of amputation.
Who can get type 2 diabetes?
Although anyone can get type 2 diabetes, there are many risk factors that increase the risk:
- Age (especially over 45)
- Unhealthy weight
- Family history
- High alcohol intake
- Sedentary life style
- Ethnicity and race
- High blood pressure
- Low HDL cholesterol
- High triglyceride counts
What are the symptoms of type 2 diabetes?
The symptoms of type 2 diabetes may vary greatly from person to person. In fact, some individuals with type 2 diabetes don’t experience any symptoms. However, there are some common signs:
- Increased hunger and/or thirst
- Frequent urination
- Dry mouth
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Decreased ability to fight infections
- Blurred vision
- Tingling in the hands or feet
- Slow-healing sores
Why study type 2 diabetes?
Cases are rapidly rising; Gallup Healthways estimate 37 million Americans will be type 2 diabetics by 2015. Also, cases of type 2 diabetes in children and teenagers are also dramatically increasing. Researchers have found that the increase in obesity, as well as a decrease in physical activity, may be to blame.
JBR Clinical Research is conducting a clinical research study on type 2 diabetes.
Basic qualifications are:
· Diagnosis of type 2 diabetes
· Male or Female
· Aged 40 to 49 years
If you qualify you may receive:
· Study related exam
· Compensation for time and travel related to the study
