Which type of diabetes is also referred to as adult-onset diabetes?

Type 2 diabetes is commonly referred to as adult-onset diabetes because it typically develops in adults, often as a result of lifestyle factors such as obesity, inactivity, and poor diet. This form of diabetes is characterized by insulin resistance, where the body does not use insulin effectively. Unlike Type 1 diabetes, which usually manifests in childhood or adolescence and involves an autoimmune response that destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, Type 2 diabetes can often be managed through lifestyle changes and medication.

The term "adult-onset" highlights the age at which it is most frequently diagnosed, although it is increasingly being seen in younger populations due to rising obesity rates. Understanding this distinction is crucial for addressing the risk factors and treatment options associated with Type 2 diabetes.