Types of Diabetes

Pre-Diabetes
Before developing type 2 diabetes, most people show symptoms of pre-diabetes, a condition in which blood glucose levels measure higher than normal but not as high as it does with diabetes. People with pre-diabetes - 54 million in the United States - face an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes within a decade unless they change their eating habits and get more exercise. Research suggests that pre-diabetes may cause some damage to the body, especially the heart and circulatory system.
Reviewed by Sharon Howard, R.D., M.S., C.D.E, F.A.D.A - 01/10

Type 1 Diabete

Type 1 diabetes (or insulin-dependent) develops when the immune system in the body attacks insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas and destroys them. When the pancreas no longer makes insulin, blood glucose (blood sugar) cannot enter the cells to be used for energy, leaving high levels in the blood.
Although type 1 diabetes is most often diagnosed in children or young adults, the disease can strike at any age.
Reviewed by Sharon Howard, R.D., M.S., C.D.E, F.A.D.A - 01/10

Type 2 Diabetes

When the body does not produce enough insulin or does not use it properly or efficiently, type 2 diabetes (or insulin-resistant) develops. Insulin is the gatekeeper of the body that assures that blood glucose, or blood sugar, is handled properly. When the response to insulin in the body is ineffective, glucose builds up in the blood and your body passes it through. As diabetes develops, other health problems, such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol levels, are also likely to occur.
Often, type 2 diabetes symptoms develop gradually, so people may have the disease for months or years before it is diagnosed. Most people who develop type 2 diabetes first exhibit signs of pre-diabetes, with blood glucose levels elevated but below the diabetes range.
Type 2 diabetes is most often diagnosed in overweight adults age 40+ with a family history of diabetes, however, it is becoming increasingly common in younger people, especially adolescents. Recent research on obesity in children also indicates there is an increased risk of hybrid or double diabetes. People with type 1 diabetes who become overweight and have high blood pressure are at risk of developing type 2 as well. Also, certain racial and ethnic groups - African-Americans, Asian-Americans, Latinos and Native Americans - are more prone to diabetes.Reviewed by Sharon Howard, R.D., M.S., C.D.E, F.A.D.A - 01/10

An abstract from: http://www.diabetescare.net/about.asp?category=Types&gclid=CI7XhInGvqgCFYQc6wodpVhhpg