There are three types of diabetes mellitus: type 1, type 2, and gestational. All are caused by insufficient production of insulin, the hormone that enables glucose (sugar) to be transformed into energy, or by the ineffective use of insulin within the body. Globally, the number of people with diabetes is increasing rapidly due to aging populations and increased rates of obesity and sedentary lifestyles. Lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a healthy body weight and diet, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking are the best ways to reduce the risk of developing the disease.

Although diabetes affects men and women, the disease appears to be more prevalent among men. Diabetes poses unique challenges for women at various stages in her life, including pregnancy-which can affect both the mother ...