Final answer:
Type 2 diabetes is usually caused by a combination of insulin resistance and impaired insulin secretion and can often be managed through lifestyle changes such as proper diet and exercise. It is more common than type 1 diabetes and is not typically classified as an autoimmune disease.
Step-by-step explanation:
Type 2 diabetes is a metabolic condition that is characterized by the body's inability to effectively use insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels. Unlike type 1 diabetes, where the pancreatic beta cells are destroyed by an autoimmune response, type 2 diabetes often develops due to a combination of insulin resistance and an eventual decrease in insulin production.
Option C in the student's question is correct: Type 2 diabetes can usually be controlled by diet and exercise rather than with medication. This is in line with current medical understanding that behavioral interventions such as weight loss, increased physical activity, and a healthy diet can significantly improve glucose control and may even reverse the condition in some cases. However, it's crucial to note that some individuals may still require medication to manage their blood glucose levels effectively.
Furthermore, type 2 diabetes is significantly more common than type 1, accounting for about 90% of diabetes cases worldwide. It is often diagnosed in adulthood, though increasingly it is also being found in younger individuals. Lastly, it's not conventionally classified as an autoimmune disease, while recent research suggests chronic inflammation may play a role in its development.