Type 2 diabetics do make their own insulin but it is either not in a sufficient amount to meet their needs and/or their body has become resistant to its effects.  At the time of diagnosis they may or may not have any symptoms, and they will often have both high glucose levels and high insulin levels.  About 90% of diabetes cases in the United States are type 2.  It generally occurs later in life, in those who are obese, sedentary and over 45 years of age.  Risk factors include:

• Obesity
• Lack of exercise
• Family history of diabetes
• Pre-diabetes
• Ethnic groups, African-American, Hispanic-American, Native American, Asian-American, Pacific Islanders
• Gestational diabetes during pregnancy or baby weighing more than 9 pounds
• High blood pressure
• High triglycerides, high cholesterol, low HDL

Since Americans are becoming more obese and not getting enough regular exercise, the number of those diagnosed with type 2 diabetes is continuing to rise and it is developing at younger ages.