Diabetes was known even in ancient times. Although people back then didn't know what caused diabetes, they knew that it made urine and blood sweet. Hence, the word mellitus means honey, or sweet.
By Debra Manzella, R.N., About.com
Updated May 19, 2009
About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board
Diabetes was known even in ancient times. Although people back then didn't know what caused diabetes, they knew that it made urine and blood sweet. Hence, the word mellitus means honey, or sweet.
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