The Risk Factors for Type 2 Diabetes

There are many risk factors for type 2 diabetes. What are they and what can we do to cut the risk?

Obesity: This is the number one risk factor for type 2 diabetes. More weight means increased insulin resistance, because fat cells aren't as receptive to insulin as muscle cells are. A weight loss of 5% to 7% of total body weight greatly increases insulin receptivity and thereby lowers the risk of diabetes.

• Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes

Inactivity: Increasing physical activity helps decrease insulin resistance by building up more muscle cells and getting rid of fat cells. Exercise also lowers blood glucose levels by helping insulin to be more effective.

• Why Exercise Helps

Unhealthy Eating Habits: Too much fat, not enough fiber, and too many simple carbohydrates all contribute to a diagnosis of diabetes.

• Fiber and Diabetes

Family History and Genetics: People who have family members who have been diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes are at a greater risk for developing it themselves. African Americans, Alaskan Natives, Hispanic-Americans, Asian-Americans, Native Americans and Pacific Islanders also have a higher than normal rate of Type 2 diabetes.

• National Diabetes Statistics from the NDIC

Increased Age: The older we get, the greater our risk of Type 2 diabetes. Scientists theorize that the pancreas ages right along with us, and doesn't pump insulin as efficiently as it did when we were younger. Also, as our cells age, they become more resistant to insulin.

• Diabetes Management and Seniors

High Blood Pressure and High Cholesterol: These are the hallmark risk factors for many diseases and conditions, including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular conditions such as heart disease and stroke risk.

• Blood Pressure and Diabetes

History of Gestational Diabetes: Gestational diabetes affects about 4% of all pregnant women. Many women who have gestational diabetes develop type 2 diabetes years later.

• Risk Factors for Gestational Diabetes

Sources:

"Diabetes." Harvard School of Public Health. 2007. Harvard College. 8 Mar 2007.

"Am I At Risk For Type 2 Diabetes?" National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse. Dec. 2006. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. 8 Mar 2007.