Acids called ketones are formed and a high amount can cause a diabetic coma. Diabetes mellitus has been known to people since about 2000 to 3000 B.C. Diabetes means siphon in Latin, which refers to frequent urination. And mellitus means honey, which refers to the urine s sugary sweet smell. Diabetes affects about 16 million Americans. Every year 625,000 more Americans are diagnosed with the disease.
Diagnosis is based on blood glucose tests.
In diabetes, blood glucose levels are higher than normal. Diabetes may be discovered in a variety of ways, ranging from a routine blood glucose test to a sudden, life-threatening diabetic coma. Diabetes is not contagious. Its cause is unknown, but genetics, obesity, and environmental factors such as viruses are believed to have roles. Although there is no cure, diabetes can be controlled.