Diabetes is a common condition that affects people of all ages. There are several forms of diabetes, but the most common is Type 2 diabetes. The risk factors for developing Type 2 diabetes include both modifiable and non-modifiable factors.
Non-modifiable risk factors for Type 2 diabetes include:
- Family history: If you have a blood relative with diabetes, your risk for developing it is significantly increased.
- Age: You can develop Type 2 diabetes at any age, but the risk increases as you get older.
- Race and ethnicity: African American, American Indian, Asian American, Hispanic/Latino, or Pacific Islander individuals are at higher risk.
Modifiable risk factors for Type 2 diabetes include:
- Weight: Being overweight or obese increases your risk of developing diabetes. Losing 5% to 10% of your body weight can significantly reduce your risk of developing diabetes.
- Diet: Eating healthy foods in the right amounts is important. A diet high in processed foods, sugar, and unhealthy fats can increase your risk of developing diabetes.
- Physical activity: Being physically active can help you maintain a healthy weight and reduce your risk of developing diabetes.
- Cholesterol levels: Diabetes is associated with atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) and blood vessel disease. Low HDL “good” cholesterol and high triglycerides can increase your risk of developing diabetes.
Other risk factors for diabetes include:
- Gestational diabetes: If you developed diabetes during pregnancy, you are at increased risk of developing diabetes again later in life.
- Prediabetes: Having prediabetes means your blood sugar levels are higher than normal, but not high enough to be diagnosed with diabetes. If you have prediabetes, you are at increased risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.
Its important to note that there are some diabetes risk factors you cant change, such as your genetics/family history, age, and race. However, you can take steps to lower your risk for developing prediabe...
