Diabetes Mellitus — Prelims Strategy

Prelims Strategy

To excel in NEET questions on Diabetes Mellitus, a multi-pronged strategy is essential. Firstly, master the fundamental roles of insulin and glucagon in glucose homeostasis, including their sites of production and primary actions.

Secondly, be able to clearly differentiate between Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes based on their etiology (autoimmune vs. insulin resistance/beta-cell failure), typical age of onset, clinical presentation (acute vs.

gradual), and initial treatment approaches. Memorize the classic '3 Ps' symptoms: polyuria, polydipsia, and polyphagia. Thirdly, commit the diagnostic criteria (Fasting Plasma Glucose, 2-hour OGTT, and HbA1c values) to memory, as direct questions on these thresholds are common.

For numerical problems involving these values, ensure you can interpret them correctly. Fourthly, understand the major acute (DKA, HHS) and chronic (retinopathy, nephropathy, neuropathy, cardiovascular disease) complications and categorize them as microvascular or macrovascular.

Finally, have a basic grasp of the mechanism of action of common oral hypoglycemic agents like Metformin and the necessity of insulin in Type 1 DM. Pay close attention to trap options in MCQs, which often swap characteristics between Type 1 and Type 2 or confuse the effects of different hormones.