Diabetes mellitus is a chronic endocrine disease in which the body loses the ability to effectively regulate blood glucose levels. This may be associated with insufficient insulin production or reduced sensitivity of cells to its action. As a result, glucose is not properly absorbed and accumulates in the bloodstream, leading to metabolic disorders and gradual damage to various organs and systems.
The disease has a chronic course and requires continuous medical supervision. Even a slight but prolonged increase in blood sugar levels can negatively affect the condition of blood vessels, the nervous system, kidneys, vision, and the heart. Therefore, timely diagnosis and appropriately selected treatment are of critical importance.
Under normal conditions, blood glucose levels are:
- in adults — 3.5–5.7 mmol/L;
- in children — 4.2–6.4 mmol/L;
- in pregnant women and elderly individuals — 3.3–6.5 mmol/L.
With the development of diabetes mellitus, these values may increase several times. According to the World Health Organization, a fasting glucose level of 7.0 mmol/L and 11.0 mmol/L two hours after a meal is considered potentially dangerous and may lead to the development of serious complications.