There is not sufficient evidence to support the concept of genetics being the only factor The complex biochemistry of the disease is being fully examined and there is a continual flow of published papers mostly bearing on the auto-immune aspect of the disease. It is relevant to note that bio-engineering which has brought about so much benefit to the diabetic is subject to ethical scrutiny at this time. It is probably better described as 'insulin resistance'. The causes are not clearly established, and the onset is slow. Hence the metabolic disorders are widespread and complications are common at the time of diagnosis.
Chronic complications tend to be microvascular or macrovascular.
Good glycaemic control will help avoid many of the microvascular complications. There are a number of non diabetic reasons for the condition e.g. starvation, Addisons disease, carcinomas. These include palpitations, tachycardia, blurred vision, headache, dizziness, irritability, detachment and lack of concentration, hunger, ataxia, coma. Oral glucose, preferably in solution, is the best first aid. Subcutaneous glucagon is used where the patient cannot respond within 15 minutes, but there is a 20 minute time lag while hepatic glycogen is mobilised to glucose.