Which of the following is true regarding diabetes mellitus?

The statement that diabetes mellitus may lead to chronic complications if not managed is accurate and reflects the serious long-term effects of the disease. Diabetes can cause a variety of complications such as cardiovascular disease, neuropathy, nephropathy, and retinopathy, among others, primarily due to prolonged elevated blood glucose levels. Effective management of diabetes through lifestyle changes, medication, and regular monitoring can significantly reduce the risk of these complications, highlighting the importance of appropriate treatment strategies.

The other options do not reflect the realities of diabetes. The idea that diabetes can be completely cured is misleading, as current understanding recognizes that while Type 2 diabetes can be managed and sometimes put into remission, there is no definitive cure for diabetes. Additionally, stating that diabetes is indicative of normal insulin action is incorrect, as diabetes, by definition, involves issues with insulin production, action, or both. Lastly, diabetes does not predominantly affect the elderly; it can occur at any age, including in children and adolescents, due to various types of the condition. Thus, prompt recognition and effective management from a young age are crucial to overall health.