n. A disease marked by high glucose levels in the blood and impaired metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, caused by the body's inability to respond effectively to insulin, combined with inadequate production of insulin by the pancreas. The disease, which can occur at any age but typically develops in middle-aged and older adults, often begins with no symptoms, is associated with obesity and inactivity, and may be managed, depending on severity, with dietary changes, an exercise regimen, and oral or injectable medications. Also called non-insulin-dependent diabetes, non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus.