Diabetes mellitus, characterized by high blood glucose due to inadequate insulin action, comprises two main types: type 1, an autoimmune disease, and type 2, marked by insulin resistance. This review provides a comprehensive overview of diabetes management and treatment advancements. Effective diabetes management includes maintaining blood glucose levels within normal ranges and monitoring HbA1c, a marker reflecting average glucose levels over the past few months. Historically, the discovery of insulin in 1921 revolutionized diabetes treatment, significantly extending patient life expectancy. Current treatment strategies encompass diet, exercise, and pharmacotherapy. The diet involves a balanced intake of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, while exercise, including aerobic and resistance training, improves insulin sensitivity and glucose control. Pharmacotherapy options include insulin therapy and oral hypoglycemic agents, like metformin and empagliflozin, each with specific mechanisms of action. Innovative treatments include SGLT2 inhibitors and GLP-1 receptor agonists, which aid in glucose control and offer additional benefits like weight loss and improved cardiovascular outcomes. Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) and insulin pumps represent technological advancements enhancing glycemic control through real-time monitoring and automated insulin delivery. We must pay attention to diabetes-related stigma, which we should overcome by advocacy. The diabetes education programs at Juntendo University Hospital aim to improve patient self-management through comprehensive diet, exercise, and medication education. We emphasize the importance of integrating the latest research and societal support to enable diabetic patients to lead healthy, fulfilling lives.
Keywords: advocacy; autophagy; diabetes; insulin; stigma.
© 2024 The Juntendo Medical Society.