Diabetes mellitus is indeed a major global health issue, affecting an estimated 500 million people worldwide. It is a group of metabolic diseases characterized by high blood sugar levels over a prolonged period due to various dysfunctions in insulin production or action.

Key Characteristics of Diabetes Mellitus:
Glucose Regulation: In healthy individuals, insulin helps to regulate blood glucose levels by facilitating the uptake of glucose into cells. In diabetes, this process is impaired.
Protein Metabolism: Diabetes can affect the body’s ability to process proteins properly, which can impact muscle mass and overall health.
Carbohydrate Metabolism: The body’s ability to convert carbohydrates into energy is hindered, leading to elevated blood sugar levels.
Lipid Metabolism: Diabetes affects the metabolism of fats, often leading to higher levels of bad cholesterol and triglycerides, which can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Water-Salt Balance and Mineral Metabolism: Diabetes can disrupt the balance of fluids and minerals in the body, which can lead to a variety of complications, including dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.
Pathophysiology:
Insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas, is central to regulating glucose levels in the blood. It facilitates the entry of glucose into cells, where it is used for energy. Diabetes develops when:

The pancreas does not produce enough insulin (Type 1 diabetes).
The body’s cells do not respond properly to insulin (Type 2 diabetes), a condition known as insulin resistance.
Consequences:
Without effective insulin action, glucose cannot be adequately absorbed by the cells, leading to high levels of glucose in the blood (hyperglycemia). This can cause various short-term and long-term health problems, including:

Immediate issues such as fatigue and blurred vision.
Long-term complications like kidney disease, nerve damage, heart disease, and stroke.
Managing diabetes involves monitoring blood glucose levels, dietary management, physical activity, and often medication or insulin therapy to help control blood sugar levels and prevent complications.