Previous Year Questions

Question :

Directions : Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions that follow.

Diabetes is a chronic health condition that affects how the body processes blood sugar, or glucose. Glucose is an essential source of energy for the body's cells, and its regulation is critical for maintaining overall health. The condition arises when the body either doesn't produce enough insulin or can't effectively use the insulin it produces. Insulin is a hormone made by the pancreas that allows glucose to enter the body's cells to be used for energy. When this system is disrupted, blood glucose levels can become dangerously high, leading to serious health complications over time. There are three primary types of diabetes: Type 1, Type 2, and gestational diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition in which the body attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. It is usually diagnosed in children and young adults, and people with Type 1 diabetes require daily insulin injections to survive. Type 2 diabetes, which is the most common form, occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin or the pancreas fails to produce enough of it. It is often linked to lifestyle factors such as diet, physical inactivity, and obesity, though genetics also plays a role. Gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy and usually resolves after childbirth, but it can increase the ___(A)___ of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life.

Globally, more than 500 million people are living with diabetes, and the number continues to rise. In the UK alone, over 4 million people have been diagnosed with the condition, with many more likely to be undiagnosed. Diabetes affects people of all backgrounds, but research shows it can have unique effects on women. Hormonal changes during menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause can complicate blood sugar control. Additionally, women with diabetes are at a higher risk of heart disease than men with the condition and often face other health challenges, including complications during pregnancy and increased risks of depression. Early symptoms of diabetes can include frequent urination, excessive thirst, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, and blurred vision. However, in many cases - especially with Type 2 diabetes - the symptoms can be mild or go unnoticed for years. Left untreated, diabetes can lead to serious complications such as heart disease, kidney failure, nerve damage, vision loss, and poor wound healing. This makes early detection and effective management crucial.

Diagnosis is usually confirmed through blood tests, such as the fasting plasma glucose (FPG) test or the Hba1c test, which measures average blood sugar levels over the past two to three months. Once diagnosed, the management of diabetes involves a multi-faceted approach. For many, this includes a combination of medication, regular monitoring of blood sugar levels, a balanced diet, and physical activity. In some cases, particularly with Type 2 diabetes, lifestyle changes alone may help manage or even reverse the condition. Diet plays a crucial role in diabetes management. A healthy eating plan for someone with diabetes focuses on controlling carbohydrate intake and ensuring a balance of protein, healthy fats, and fibre. Whole grains, vegetables, lean proteins, and unsweetened dairy products are commonly recommended. Monitoring portion sizes and meal timing can also help maintain stable blood sugar levels. Apps and food tracking tools can come in handy for people who are learning to manage their meals more effectively.

Regular physical activity supports blood sugar regulation and overall well-being. Even moderate exercise, such as brisk walking for 30 minutes a day, can improve insulin sensitivity and help control weight. For individuals with Type 1 diabetes, insulin therapy is essential and may involve multiple daily injections or the use of an insulin pump. People with Type 2 diabetes may take oral medications like metformin, which helps the body respond better to insulin and reduces glucose production in the liver. Newer medications such as GLP-1 receptor agonists and SGLT2 inhibitors have also shown promise in managing blood sugar and reducing cardiovascular risk. Living with diabetes requires consistent self-care and support. Many people benefit from diabetes education programs, which teach critical skills such as glucose monitoring, recognizing symptoms of high or low blood sugar, and maintaining foot health. Mental health care is also essential, as managing a chronic condition can cause emotional strain and burnout. Advancements in technology are helping make diabetes management more precise and less intrusive. Devices like continuous glucose monitors (CGMs), smart insulin pens, and artificial pancreas systems are revolutionizing care. Meanwhile, researchers are exploring long-term treatments such as islet cell transplants and stem cell therapies, which may one day offer a cure.

According to the passage, what happens when the body's insulin production system is disrupted?