T1DM is sometimes called Insulin Dependent Diabetes Mellitus or Juvenile-Onset Diabetes. T1DM develops when there is little or no insulin produced by the pancreas. This type of diabetes usually is seen in children and in adolescents, rarely in adults. Once diagnosed such persons have to be on insulin replacement therapy. With proper control and care, these young persons can hope to lead a normal life.

Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus is sometimes called Non Insulin Dependent Diabetes Mellitus or NIDDM. T2DM develops when the body is unable to produce the insulin required by the body in the face of insulin resistance.  In most cases this is linked with being overweight or obese. T2DM was seen mainly in persons over the age of 40 years but now the onset of the condition is increasingly seen in the younger age group inclusive of the first decade of life.