Is remission of type 2 diabetes mellitus real?

Type 2 diabetes mellitus has traditionally been considered a progressive condition, with an inexorable loss of pancreatic β-cell function resulting eventually in insulin dependency. Advances in management can flatten this trajectory with reversal of hyperglycaemia and dyslipidaemia improving pancreatic β-cell function, at least temporarily. This can be achieved by augmenting insulin secretion and/or reducing endogenous insulin requirements. Strategies to reduce endogenous insulin requirements include ameliorating insulin resistance, reducing carbohydrate intake, or increasing glucose disposal. Such strategies are achieved with combination pharmacotherapy and modification of health-related behaviours, making a glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) level of ≤ 6.5% a feasible and durable target...