What is diabetes?
Diabetes is a chronic disease that occurs as a result of a shortage of insulin or a decreased ability to use insulin. Insulin is a hormone that allows glucose (sugar) to enter our cells.

Most of the food we eat is turned into glucose, which our bodies use for energy. When the body is not making or using insulin properly, sugars and fats can build up in the blood, causing damage to important organs.

Knowing if you are at risk for diabetes can help your doctor diagnose and treat and diabetes early. Finding and treating diabetes early can prevent serious complications later.