Endocrine and metabolic disorders

Type 1 diabetes is a condition where the body’s immune system attacks the cells in the pancreas that produce insulin. Insulin is needed to control blood sugar levels.

People with Type 1 diabetes need to take insulin for life to manage their blood sugar levels.

Type 2 diabetes is a condition where the body doesn't properly use insulin, leading to high blood sugar levels. It can affect how the body processes food for energy. It is often related to lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise, and weight.

Graves' disease is an autoimmune disorder that causes the thyroid gland to become overactive (hyperthyroidism). This leads to the body producing too much thyroid hormone.

Symptoms of Graves' Disease

• Weight loss
• Rapid heart rate
• Feeling hot
• Shortness of breath
• Difficulty sleeping
• Fatigue
• Irritability
• Bulging eyes
• Skin problems
• Double vision
• Damage to vision because of thyroid eye disease

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a condition where a woman's ovaries contain many small cysts, which can affect the balance of hormones.

This can lead to irregular periods, trouble with getting pregnant, excess hair growth, and weight gain.

PCOS affects 1 in 10 women and is more common in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women, affecting 1 in 5.

Thyroid disorders affect the gland in the neck that produces hormones controlling metabolism. Hyperthyroidism means the gland is overactive, causing weight loss, anxiety, and rapid heartbeat. Hypothyroidism means it’s underactive, leading to fatigue, weight gain, and difficulty concentrating. Both can fluctuate and require ongoing medical management.