Introduction Type 2 diabetes mellitus is one of the most common chronic diseases worldwide and represents a major public health challenge due to its serious complications that affect patients’ quality of life. This type of diabetes is characterized by elevated blood glucose levels resulting from insulin resistance and/or a relative deficiency in insulin secretion. Causes and Risk Factors Type 2 diabetes mellitus is associated with several risk factors, including: Obesity and overweight Physical inactivity Genetic predisposition Aging Diets high in sugars and fats These factors lead to decreased cellular responsiveness to insulin, resulting in chronic hyperglycemia. Clinical Symptoms The disease may be asymptomatic in its early stages. Over time, symptoms may include: Excessive thirst and frequent urination Fatigue and general weakness Blurred vision Delayed wound healing Complications If not properly controlled, type 2 diabetes can lead to serious complications, such as: Cardiovascular diseases Kidney failure Diabetic retinopathy, which may result in blindness Peripheral neuropathy Diabetic foot Diagnosis The diagnosis of type 2 diabetes mellitus is based on laboratory investigations, including: Fasting blood glucose test Oal glucose tolerance test Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) Treatment Management of type 2 diabetes includes several approaches: Lifestyle modification: adopting a healthy diet and engaging in regular physical activity Pharmacological therapy: such as metformin and other oral hypoglycemic agents Insulin therapy: in advanced cases or when other treatments fail Conclusion Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a chronic disease that can be effectively managed through early diagnosis, adherence to treatment, and a healthy lifestyle. Proper management significantly reduces the risk of complications and improves patients’ quality of life. AL_mustaqbal University is the first university in Iraq