Type 2 Diabetes
A metabolic disorder where the body cannot effectively use insulin, often linked to weight.
Plain English
Patient-Friendly Explanation
Type 2 diabetes means your body cannot use insulin properly, causing high blood sugar. Being overweight is the strongest risk factor. Many patients see significant improvement or even remission with weight loss of 10-15% of body weight.
Medical
Clinical Definition
Type 2 diabetes mellitus is characterised by insulin resistance and relative insulin deficiency. It accounts for 90% of diabetes cases. Weight management is a first-line intervention in clinical guidelines from MOH Singapore.
Key Insight
Why It Matters
Singapore has one of the highest diabetes rates among developed nations. Weight management is the most effective non-pharmacological intervention for preventing and managing type 2 diabetes.
Sources
Reviewed against standard medical references.
Medically reviewed by
Family Physician & Registered Acupuncturist, Accord Medical Clinic. MBBS (NUS), Graduate Diploma in Family Medicine (NUS), Graduate Diploma in Acupuncture (Singapore College of TCM).
Last reviewed: August 2026
This page is general health education, not medical advice. Whether any treatment is appropriate for you is a decision made in consultation after assessment.
