Pathogenesis and pharmacological treatment options for patients suffering with type 2 diabetes mellitus
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Abstract
Type 2 diabetes mellitus is an endocrine disorder characterized by chronic hyperglycemia and insulin resistance. The mechanism of action is beta cell dysfunction in the pancreatic Islets of Langerhans where there is a combination of less than normal insulin secretion and a problem in the way the body responds to insulin. Diabetes is a multifactorial disease: there are genetic, environmental, and other lifestyle factors that contribute to its pathogenesis. The major risk factors for diabetes include obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, and physical inactivity. Smoking and alcohol consumption, environment, stress and anxiety, and race and socioeconomic status also play a role. Type 2 diabetes presents with many clinical manifestations such as microvascular and macrovascular diseases which include diabetic nephropathy, diabetic retinopathy, diabetic neuropathy, cardiovascular disease, stroke, and peripheral artery disease. Currently, there are no treatments for diabetes, but lifestyle interventions can help with the prevention and further progression of this disease. Such interventions include a healthier diet, increased levels of physical activities, and obesity management. With people who need more effective management of diabetes, anti-diabetic medications such a Biguanides and sulfonylureas, or insulin therapy can be used. Research continues to focus on the development of new therapeutic strategies to better manage type 2 diabetes.