Which of the following statements about diabetes is true?

• A. Type 1 diabetes is far less prevalent than type 2 diabetes - type 1 accounts for less than 10% of cases.
• B. Over 30% of the world's population have diabetes.
• C. Diabetes cannot occur in patients under the age of 20.
• D. Type 2 diabetes is usually diagnose in patients under the age of 35.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the two main types of diabetes: Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the body attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, leading to little or no insulin production. Type 2 diabetes is a metabolic disorder where the body becomes resistant to insulin or does not produce enough insulin.
2. Step 2: Analyze the prevalence of Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is far less common, accounting for less than 10% of all diabetes cases, while Type 2 diabetes is much more prevalent and often associated with lifestyle factors.
3. Step 3: Evaluate the claim about the global population with diabetes. Over 30% of the world's population having diabetes is an exaggerated statement. The actual global prevalence of diabetes is significantly lower, around 10% according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
4. Step 4: Assess the claim about diabetes in patients under the age of 20. Type 1 diabetes can occur in children and young adults, often diagnosed before the age of 20. Type 2 diabetes, though less common in younger individuals, is increasingly being diagnosed in children and adolescents due to rising obesity rates.
5. Step 5: Examine the claim about Type 2 diabetes diagnosis age. Type 2 diabetes is typically diagnosed in adults over the age of 35, but it is not exclusive to this age group. Lifestyle factors and obesity have led to earlier diagnoses in some cases.