Diabetes is a chronic medical condition characterized by high blood sugar (glucose) levels due to problems in the production of the hormone insulin or its action on the body’s cells. Insulin, which is produced by the pancreas, helps cells absorb glucose and use it as energy. When this process is disrupted, glucose builds up in the blood, which over time can lead to a number of serious complications, including heart disease, kidney disease, nerve damage, and eye damage. Diabetes is divided into several types, the most common of which are type 1, in which the pancreas does not produce insulin, and type 2, in which the body cannot effectively use the insulin produced.