Unveiling Diabetes: Categories, Genetics, Diagnostics, Treatments, and Future Horizons

Curr Diabetes Rev. 2024;20(4):e180823219972. doi: 10.2174/1573399820666230818092958.

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus is a global epidemic affecting millions of individuals worldwide. This comprehensive review aims to provide a thorough understanding of the categorization, disease identity, genetic architecture, diagnosis, and treatment of diabetes. The categorization of diabetes is discussed, with a focus on type 1 and type 2 diabetes, as well as the lesser-known types, type 3 and type 4 diabetes. The geographical variation, age, gender, and ethnic differences in the prevalence of type 1 and type 2 diabetes are explored. The impact of disease identity on disease management and the role of autoimmunity in diabetes are examined. The genetic architecture of diabetes, including the interplay between genotype and phenotype, is discussed to enhance our understanding of the underlying mechanisms. The importance of insulin injection sites and the insulin signalling pathway in diabetes management are highlighted. The diagnostic techniques for diabetes are reviewed, along with advancements for improved differentiation between types. Treatment and management approaches, including medications used in diabetes management are presented. Finally, future perspectives are discussed, emphasizing the need for further research and interventions to address the global burden of diabetes. This review serves as a valuable resource for healthcare professionals, researchers, and policymakers, providing insights to develop targeted strategies for the prevention, diagnosis, and management of this complex disease.

Keywords: Diabetes; autoimmunity.; diabetes-associated autoantibodies; genetic risk; hyperglycaemia; insulin.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1* / diagnosis
  • Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1* / genetics
  • Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1* / therapy
  • Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2* / diagnosis
  • Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2* / drug therapy
  • Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2* / genetics
  • Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2* / therapy
  • Genetic Predisposition to Disease
  • Humans
  • Hypoglycemic Agents / therapeutic use
  • Insulin / therapeutic use
  • Phenotype

Substances

  • Hypoglycemic Agents
  • Insulin