MODEL RELEASED. Diabetes education. Nurse using models to demonstrate high blood viscosity to a diabetic patient. The models show red blood cells in healthy blood at left, and red blood cells in high-viscosity blood at right. High blood viscosity has been studied as a risk factor for insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes mellitus. It can lead to increased high blood pressure and heart attacks. Diabetes mellitus affects glucose sugar metabolism. Blood sugar is not oxidised due to a lack of the pancreatic hormone insulin. Treatment is based on a strict diet and daily insulin injections to maintain the blood-sugar balance.