Diabetes is one of the most common chronic diseases in Canada and around the world. It affects the way your body manages blood sugar, and if left untreated, it can seriously damage your eyes, kidneys, nerves, and blood vessels. In this article, we explain what diabetes is, what causes it, what symptoms to watch for, and what treatment options are available. As always, speak with your family doctor or visit a walk-in clinic if you have any concerns about your health.
What Is Diabetes?
Diabetes is a chronic condition where your body either does not produce enough insulin or cannot use insulin properly. Insulin is a hormone made by the pancreas. It helps sugar (glucose) from your food enter your cells and give you energy.
When insulin is missing or not working well, sugar builds up in your bloodstream instead of going into your cells. Over time, high blood sugar causes damage throughout the body. According to the World Health Organization’s diabetes fact sheet, diabetes was the direct cause of approximately 1.6 million deaths worldwide in 2016, making it the seventh leading cause of death that year.
Diabetes is also the most common endocrine (hormonal) disorder in the world. The number of people living with diabetes grew from 108 million in 1980 to 422 million by 2014. That is a dramatic rise that shows why understanding this disease matters more than ever.
Types of Diabetes
Diabetes is not a single disease. It comes in several forms, each with its own causes and behaviour. The three main types are Type 1, Type 2, and gestational diabetes. There are also other, less common forms linked to specific medical conditions or medications.
Type 1 Diabetes
Type 1 diabetes most often develops in children and young adults. In this form, the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. As a result, the body produces little or no insulin at all.
People with Type 1 diabetes need daily insulin therapy to survive. This is why it was previously called insulin-dependent diabetes. Without insulin, a life-threatening condition called diabetic ketoacidosis can develop very quickly.
The exact cause of Type 1 diabetes is not fully understood. However, researchers believe a combination of genetic factors and environmental triggers — such as certain viral infections — may cause the immune system to attack the pancreas. Some research also suggests that early exposure to cow’s milk proteins in infancy may play a role, though this is still being studied.
Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is by far the most common form. It usually develops in adults over 40, though it is increasingly being seen in younger people and even children. In this case, the body still produces insulin, but the cells do not respond to it properly. This is called insulin resistance.
Over time, the pancreas may also start producing less insulin. As a result, blood sugar levels rise too high. Many people with Type 2 diabetes can manage the condition with lifestyle changes, oral medications, or both. However, some people will eventually need insulin therapy as the disease progresses.
For more detail on how Type 2 diabetes develops and is managed, visit the Mayo Clinic’s overview of Type 2 diabetes.
Gestational Diabetes
Gestational diabetes develops during pregnancy, usually in the second or third trimester. It happens because pregnancy hormones can cause insulin resistance in the mother’s body. Most women have no noticeable symptoms, which is why screening is so important.
In Canada, your doctor or midwife will typically screen for gestational diabetes between weeks 24 and 28 of pregnancy. Early detection and treatment are essential. If left unmanaged, gestational diabetes can lead to complications for both mother and baby.
Causes and Risk Factors of Diabetes
The causes of diabetes are only partly understood. Both genetics and lifestyle factors play a role. The weight of each factor varies depending on which type of diabetes we are talking about.
Genetic and Hereditary Factors
A family history of diabetes increases your risk for both Type 1 and Type 2. If a parent or sibling has diabetes, your chances of developing it are higher than average. However, having the gene does not mean you will definitely get the disease.
Environmental triggers still seem to be necessary to “switch on” the condition in most people. This is especially true for Type 1 diabetes, where genetics alone does not explain all cases.
Lifestyle and Environmental Risk Factors
For Type 2 diabetes, lifestyle plays a much bigger role. The most important modifiable risk factors include:
Excess body weight, especially around the abdomen
Poor diet, including high intake of processed foods and sugars
Physical inactivity and a sedentary lifestyle
Chronic stress, which can affect blood sugar regulation
Certain medications, such as long-term steroid use
Other medical conditions, such as chronic pancreatitis or hormonal disorders like Cushing’s syndrome
The good news is that many of these risk factors can be changed. Making healthier choices can significantly reduce your risk of developing Type 2 diabetes — or slow its progression if you have already been diagnosed.
Symptoms of Diabetes
Diabetes symptoms can vary widely from person to person. In some cases — especially with Type 2 and gestational diabetes — there may be no obvious symptoms at all in the early stages. This makes regular check-ups very important.
When symptoms do appear, the most common ones include:
Excessive thirst that does not go away
Frequent urination, including waking up at night to use the washroom
Unexplained fatigue or low energy
Blurred vision
Slow-healing cuts or bruises
Tingling or numbness in the hands or feet
Unexplained weight loss (more common with Type 1)
Increased hunger, even after eating
High blood sugar (called hyperglycaemia) is the hallmark of diabetes. In some cases, sugar also spills into the urine, a condition called glucosuria. If you notice any combination of these symptoms, it is worth getting checked out right away.
How Is Diabetes Treated?
Treatment for diabetes depends on the type and severity of the condition. The main goal is always the same: keep blood sugar levels within a healthy range to prevent complications.
Type 1 Diabetes Treatment
People with Type 1 diabetes must take insulin every day. This can be done through injections or an insulin pump. Blood sugar must be monitored closely, often several times a day. Diet and physical activity also play an important supporting role.
Type 2 Diabetes Treatment
Type 2 diabetes is often managed first through lifestyle changes. These include eating a balanced, fibre-rich diet, increasing physical activity, and reaching a healthy body weight. Many people also take oral medications to help their body use insulin more effectively.
In some cases, insulin therapy is needed — particularly as the disease progresses. Your family doctor or an endocrinologist (hormone specialist) will work with you to find the right treatment plan. Most provincial health plans in Canada cover essential diabetes medications and supplies, though coverage details vary by province.
Gestational Diabetes Treatment
Gestational diabetes is usually managed through a healthy diet and regular physical activity. Some women may also need insulin injections during pregnancy. After delivery, blood sugar typically returns to normal, but the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life remains higher.
For a comprehensive look at diabetes management strategies, Healthline’s diabetes resource centre offers evidence-based information that complements advice from your healthcare provider.
When to See a Doctor
You should speak with your family doctor if you notice any symptoms of diabetes, such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, or unusual fatigue. Do not wait for symptoms to worsen. Many Canadians with Type 2 diabetes are diagnosed only after a routine blood test — which is another reason regular check-ups matter.
If you do not have a family doctor, a walk-in clinic can order a basic blood sugar test. Early diagnosis gives you the best chance to manage the condition and avoid serious complications. If you are pregnant, make sure your prenatal care includes screening for gestational diabetes.
Diabetes is a serious condition, but with the right support, most people live full and active lives. Your provincial health plan may also provide access to diabetes education programmes and dietitian services — ask your doctor about what is available in your area.
Frequently Asked Questions About Diabetes
What is the difference between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes?
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the body produces no insulin at all. Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body produces insulin but cannot use it effectively. Type 1 is usually diagnosed in children and young adults, while Type 2 most often develops in adults, though both types can occur at any age.
Can diabetes be prevented?
Type 2 diabetes can often be prevented or delayed through healthy lifestyle choices, including a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and maintaining a healthy weight. Type 1 diabetes cannot currently be prevented, as it is caused by an immune system response. Gestational diabetes risk can be reduced by maintaining a healthy weight before and during pregnancy.
What are the early warning signs of diabetes?
Early signs of diabetes include excessive thirst, frequent urination, unexplained fatigue, and blurred vision. Some people also notice slow-healing wounds or tingling in their hands and feet. However, many people — especially those with Type 2 diabetes — have no symptoms at all in the early stages, which is why regular blood sugar testing is so important.
Is diabetes covered by provincial health plans in Canada?
Most provincial health plans in Canada cover essential diabetes medications, insulin, and some monitoring supplies, though the level of coverage varies by province. Many provinces also offer funded diabetes education programmes and access to registered dietitians. Ask your family doctor or contact your provincial health authority for details specific to your province.
What blood sugar level indicates diabetes?
In Canada, a fasting blood sugar level of 7.0 mmol/L or higher on two separate tests typically indicates diabetes. A random blood sugar of 11.1 mmol/L or higher, along with symptoms, can also lead to a diagnosis. Your doctor will confirm the diagnosis with a proper blood test and discuss next steps with you.
Can you have diabetes without knowing it?
Yes — many Canadians live with diabetes for years without realising it, particularly with Type 2 diabetes, which often has no obvious early symptoms. This is why routine blood sugar screening is recommended for adults over 40, or earlier if you have risk factors such as a family history, excess weight, or high blood pressure. Early detection through a simple blood test can make a significant difference in long-term health outcomes.
Key Takeaways
Diabetes is a chronic condition where the body cannot properly produce or use insulin, leading to high blood sugar levels.
There are three main types: Type 1, Type 2, and gestational diabetes, each with different causes and treatments.
Common symptoms include excessive thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, and blurred vision — but many people have no symptoms at all early on.
Lifestyle factors such as diet, physical activity, and body weight are key risk factors for Type 2 diabetes and are within your control.
Treatment ranges from lifestyle changes and oral medications to daily insulin therapy, depending on the type and progression of diabetes.
Most provincial health plans in Canada offer coverage for diabetes medications and education programmes.
Always speak with your family doctor or visit a walk-in clinic if you have concerns about your blood sugar or any symptoms of diabetes.
