adult-onset diabetes

adult-onset diabetes Non-insulin-dependent, or type 2, diabetes, the most common form of diabetes mellitus. Unlike patients with insulin-dependent, or type 1, diabetes, in whom the pancreas makes no insulin, patients with adult-onset diabetes produce some insulin, sometimes even large amounts. However, their bodies do not produce enough insulin or their body cells are resistant to the action of insulin. People with this form of diabetes are frequently overweight and can sometimes control their disease by losing weight through diet and exercise. Otherwise, they may need to combine insulin or another diabetes medication with diet and exercise. See also diabetes, type 1.