Diabetes
Diabetes Mellitus - The most common form of diabetes in which the supply of insulin is insufficient for the body's needs.
Type I diabetes (always treated with insulin) results from the destruction of the pancreas, usually triggered by a viral infection.
Type II diabetes (known as age onset, treated usually by diet or tablets) is due to a lack of the required level of insulin combined with sensitivity to the actions of insulin.
Obesity is of great importance when defining the severity of the condition. The absence of insulin deprives the muscles of energy and as a result sugar builds up in the blood stream, which is then found in the urine.
GP’s report is likely to be required to ascertain age at diagnosis, treatment, whether blood sugar levels are stable, height and weight, and any other associated medical conditions.
Likely life insurance underwriting decisions.
For Life Cover
Type I – Any decision is dependent upon age at diagnosis. It is usually diagnosed between childhood and early 20s. The younger the age diagnosed, the higher the likely premium, typically +200-300% more than normal life insurance premiums.
Type 2 – The age the condition is diagnosed is largely irrelevant. It is usually diagnosed from age 30 onwards. Typically, premiums are +50-100% more than normal life insurance premiums.
For Critical Illness Cover - Almost always declined. Check with a LifeSearch adviser as to whether cover can be arranged.
Diabetes Insipidus - A very rare disease caused by inadequate production of a hormone of the pituitary leading to excessive quantities of urine being produced accompanied by great thirst. The condition can also occur where the kidneys are abnormally insensitive to the hormone.
Diabetic Acidosis - Acid in the blood caused by untreated diabetes mellitus.
Diabetic Gangrene - Gangrene can often form following an operation or accident for sufferers of diabetes mellitus.
Diabetic Retinopathy - Fragile blood vessels in the eye that leak as a result of diabetes mellitus.
