Describe the process of non-insulin dependent diabetes (type 2).

• A. Developed later in life > pancreas functions normally but sugar is not processed properly
• B. Developed later in life > fat affects cell membranes; pancreatic cells become insulin resistant; body unable to properly process sugar
• C. Autoimmune destruction of beta cells in the pancreas
• D. Requires daily insulin injections from birth

Answer: (B)

Type 2 diabetes starts with insulin resistance in the body's tissues and a progressive decline in insulin production. Excess fat, especially around the abdomen, releases fatty acids and inflammatory signals that interfere with insulin signaling at the cell membrane, so glucose can’t enter muscle and fat cells efficiently. In response, the pancreas increases insulin output to keep blood sugar in check, leading to higher circulating insulin levels early on. Over time, the beta cells can’t sustain this demand and their function wanes, so insulin production falls and blood glucose rises. This pattern typically appears later in life and is strongly linked to obesity and inactivity; it is not due to autoimmune destruction of beta cells, and it doesn’t always require daily insulin injections from birth.