With type 1 diabetes, the body doesn’t make any insulin.  This type of diabetes most commonly starts in childhood but can occur later in life. With type 2 diabetes, the body either can produce enough insulin or the insulin it produces isn’t enough. Both type 1 and type 2 diabetes are serious conditions which need effective care and self-management to avoid complications including nerve damage, eye problems and kidney problems.

In Wales in 2020 over 209,000 people aged 18 and over were living with diabetes and around 90% of these people have type 2 diabetes. Estimates also suggest over 65,000 people in Wales have undiagnosed type 2 diabetes. More than half of all cases of type 2 diabetes could be prevented or delayed.  Being a healthy weight, physically active and eating a balanced diet can reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and are also important in managing the condition.

Adapted from Diabetes UK, 2021