OCR General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) Biology Practice Exam

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What is a key characteristic of type 2 diabetes?

It only occurs in children
Cells do not respond to insulin released by the pancreas
It can be cured with insulin injections
It is not related to diet and exercise

The correct answer is: Cells do not respond to insulin released by the pancreas

Type 2 diabetes is characterized primarily by the body's inability to properly respond to insulin, which is a hormone produced by the pancreas. In this condition, the cells in the body become resistant to insulin, meaning that even when insulin is released, the cells do not effectively take up glucose from the bloodstream. This leads to elevated blood sugar levels, which can cause various health complications if not managed properly. Understanding this characteristic is crucial, as it highlights the difference between type 2 diabetes and type 1 diabetes, where the pancreas produces little to no insulin. This distinction is important for effective treatment and management strategies, including lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise, which can significantly improve insulin sensitivity and overall health in individuals with type 2 diabetes. In contrast, type 2 diabetes does not exclusively occur in children, does not guarantee a cure through insulin injections, and is closely related to dietary habits and physical activity. Therefore, the key aspect of cells' inability to respond to insulin is fundamental in grasping the essence of type 2 diabetes.