What is the primary cause of Type 2 diabetes?

The primary cause of Type 2 diabetes is insulin resistance. In this condition, the body's cells become less responsive to insulin, which is the hormone responsible for facilitating the uptake of glucose from the bloodstream into the cells. As a result, the pancreas produces more insulin to compensate, but over time it may struggle to keep up with the demand. This leads to elevated blood sugar levels and, ultimately, hyperglycemia, which is a hallmark of Type 2 diabetes.

Insulin resistance is closely linked to various risk factors, including obesity, physical inactivity, and genetic predisposition, which can contribute to the development of this condition. It is crucial to understand that while inflammation and genetic factors can play a role in the broader context of diabetes, they are not the primary cause. Instead, insulin resistance is the key mechanism driving the onset of Type 2 diabetes. This understanding emphasizes the importance of lifestyle interventions, such as diet and exercise, which can help improve insulin sensitivity and manage blood glucose levels effectively.