Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is the 6^th leading cause of disability world-wide, and in the United States, the 7th leading cause of death. People with T2DM have a greater risk of cardiovascular disease, ischaemic stroke and early death. Diagnosis of this disease can be delayed by up to 12 years, by which time most people are already experiencing long term complications of T2DM that cause disability and loss of quality of life.

Incidence of T2DM has more than quadrupled since 1980, far exceeding forecasts. The majority of cases are now occurring in low and middle-income nations, where the impacts on national health budgets and lost productivity are amplified. 

Early intervention with effective and sustained control of plasma glucose concentration are essential to reduce the impact of T2DM on individuals and societies. Nurse play a critical role in this. All health professionals must be able to reinforce public health messages around T2DM risk factors, and prevention and screening programmes. 

Moreover, the increasing prevalence of T2DM in the population, and its high rate of complications, guarantee that all nurses will, at some time, be caring for people with this condition. 

New therapies for T2DM, based on an ever-improving understanding of the complex pathophysiology of the disease, are entering clinical practice. Nurses need an up-to-date understanding of the causes, pathophysiology and treatment of T2DM to support their provision of quality, patient-centred care.  

Learning Outcomes:

After completing this learning activity and quiz you should be able to:

• Outline the normal controls of plasma glucose.
• Describe current understanding of the causes of T2DM.
• Explain the signs, symptoms and complications of T2DM in relation to its pathophysiology.
• Review current and emerging management strategies for T2DM including drug therapies.