Type 2 diabetes: the problem and the solution

Introduction The 100 years since insulin was discovered have seen major progress in understanding the aetiology of type 1 diabetes. In contrast, type 2 diabetes (T2DM) remained mysterious until recently. Clinical studies and clinical experience had resulted in widespread acceptance of the apparently lifelong, progressive nature of the condition. Discoveries over the last 16 years have permitted these rationalisations to be discarded and the aetiology of T2DM is not now in doubt. It is a condition of excess fat inside the liver and pancreas which can be countered by weight loss. A turbulent 16 years of study has led directly to a therapeutically useful understanding of the condition. Importantly, this can be tailored to the individual.