Which of the following best describes diabetes type II?

Diabetes type II is characterized primarily by insulin resistance, which means that the body's cells do not respond effectively to insulin. Unlike type I diabetes, where the body stops producing insulin altogether, individuals with type II diabetes often produce insulin but the cells are unable to use it properly. This leads to higher blood glucose levels, as insulin is necessary for glucose uptake into cells for energy.

Typically, type II diabetes develops gradually and is often associated with obesity, physical inactivity, and genetic factors. It is more commonly diagnosed in adults, though it is increasingly seen in children and adolescents due to rising obesity rates.

The notion that diabetes type II is always insulin-dependent or occurs only during pregnancy applies to different conditions. Insulin dependency is more characteristic of type I diabetes, while gestational diabetes is related to pregnancy, not specifically type II diabetes. Therefore, identifying insulin resistance as the hallmark of type II diabetes provides a clearer understanding of its nature and distinguishes it from other types of diabetes.