Global aetiology and epidemiology of type 2 diabetes mellitus and its complications

Globally, about 1 in 11 adults have diabetes mellitus (90% have type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM)), and Asia is the epicentre of this global T2DM epidemic.The major driving factors of the global T2DM epidemic include overweight and obesity, sedentary lifestyle and increased consumption of unhealthy diets containing high levels of red meat and processed meat, refined grains and sugar-sweetened beverages.Given its global influence, it is essential to break the vicious cycle of diabetes mellitus begetting diabetes mellitus over generations by implementing effective strategies to prevent gestational diabetes mellitus.Among patients with T2DM, cardiovascular complications are the leading cause of morbidity and mortality, and kidney complications are highly prevalent in patients in Asia with diabetes mellitus.Major clinical trials have demonstrated that diet and lifestyle modifications are effective in preventing T2DM in high-risk individuals.T2DM management strategies including lifestyle modifications, social support and ensuring medication adherence are key to reducing the incidence of diabetes mellitus complications.