What typically causes secondary diabetes?

Secondary diabetes is typically caused by another medical condition or event that affects insulin production or glucose metabolism. This form of diabetes is not a primary condition, meaning it does not originate from insulin resistance or a deficiency in insulin itself, as seen in type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Instead, it can develop as a consequence of other health issues. For instance, conditions such as pancreatitis, Cushing's syndrome, or even certain medications that impact insulin sensitivity or secretion can lead to secondary diabetes.

The focus on conditions or events underlies the distinction between secondary diabetes and primary forms of diabetes, emphasizing the role of underlying health problems in its development. While factors like diet and physical activity can influence blood glucose levels, they do not specifically trigger secondary diabetes in the way that other medical conditions or events do. Therefore, recognizing the right cause as another condition or event aligns with the medical understanding of secondary diabetes.