[Current concepts in diagnostics and therapy of diabetes mellitus].

In Germany approximately 7.2% of the population currently suffer from diabetes mellitus. A further increase in the prevalence is expected in the coming years. Many therapy options, sometimes even without a risk of hypoglycemia, are now available. The foundations of a sufficient therapy of type 2 diabetes are, however, still lifestyle measures, such as weight reduction, optimized nutrition and increased physical activity. Optimization of cardiac and cerebrovascular risk factors is also an essential component of management of diabetes in order to reduce or even avoid secondary complications.