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

How does type two diabetes primarily manifest?

1. Through excessive energy expenditure

2. As a result of insulin insensitivity

3. By producing excess glucagon

4. Only when undergoing extreme physical exertion

The correct answer is: As a result of insulin insensitivity

Type two diabetes primarily manifests as a result of insulin insensitivity. This condition occurs when the body's cells become resistant to the effects of insulin, a hormone that is crucial for regulating blood glucose levels. In a healthy individual, insulin facilitates the uptake of glucose into cells for energy. However, in individuals with type two diabetes, this process is impaired, leading to elevated blood glucose levels. Over time, insulin insensitivity can result from various factors, including obesity, physical inactivity, and genetic predisposition. As the body's cells fail to respond effectively to insulin, the pancreas compensates by producing more insulin. However, this eventually leads to a state where insulin production may not keep pace with the body's demands, further exacerbating high blood sugar levels. The other options do not accurately describe the primary manifestation of type two diabetes. Excessive energy expenditure is not a typical feature of this condition; rather, individuals may actually experience fatigue and lack of energy due to insufficient glucose uptake. Producing excess glucagon is not characteristic of type two diabetes; instead, glucagon levels are typically regulated alongside insulin. Finally, the condition is not directly linked to extreme physical exertion; it can develop independently of physical activity levels, although lifestyle choices do play a significant role in its management