In Type 2 diabetes, what is the primary issue with insulin?

In Type 2 diabetes, the primary issue with insulin is insulin resistance. This means that the body's cells become less responsive to insulin, which is a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels. When insulin resistance occurs, even though the pancreas may produce sufficient or even increased amounts of insulin, the cells do not effectively utilize it. This dysfunction leads to higher levels of glucose remaining in the bloodstream, resulting in elevated blood sugar levels characteristic of diabetes.

Over time, as the pancreas struggles to keep up with the demand for insulin due to insulin resistance, it can lead to a gradual decline in insulin production, but the initial and most relevant problem is the resistance itself. This distinguishes Type 2 diabetes from Type 1 diabetes, where there is an actual deficiency in insulin production due to autoimmune destruction of the pancreatic beta cells.

Understanding insulin resistance is crucial for managing Type 2 diabetes, as interventions often focus on improving the body's ability to use insulin effectively, which can include weight management, physical activity, and sometimes medications that enhance insulin sensitivity.