What is the most prevalent type of diabetes among adults?

Type 2 diabetes is the most prevalent type of diabetes among adults, accounting for approximately 90-95% of all diabetes cases. This prevalence is largely attributed to the increasing rates of obesity, sedentary lifestyles, and dietary patterns that contribute to insulin resistance.

Unlike Type 1 diabetes, which is an autoimmune disorder leading to the destruction of insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas and typically presents in childhood or adolescence, Type 2 diabetes develops gradually and can often be managed with lifestyle changes and oral medications. The risk factors associated with Type 2 diabetes include age, family history, obesity, and physical inactivity.

Gestational diabetes is another type that occurs during pregnancy and generally resolves after childbirth, though it may increase the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life. Latent autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA) is less common than Type 2 and is characterized by a slower progression compared to typical Type 1 diabetes but involves autoimmune destruction of pancreatic cells.

Thus, the significant prevalence of Type 2 diabetes stands out in the adult population compared to the other types mentioned, making it the correct answer.