There are different causes of Type 2 diabetes, yet two important factors are certain. First, an individual inherits a predisposition for the disease, and secondly, there must be an environmental trigger that brings about the onset of symptoms. According to the American Diabetes Association, genes alone are not enough. In cases of identical twins, three in four will end up with Type 2 diabetes if their sibling already has the disease.
Family History
According to the American Diabetes Association, family history of type 2 diabetes is one of the strongest risk factors of developing type 2 diabetes. The disease is most commonly found in Westernized families. American and European families tend to eat a diet high in fat, low in carbohydrates and fiber, and participate in very minimal exercise.
Ethnicity
Ethnic groups in the United States that have the highest prevalence of the disease are African-Americans, Mexican-Americans and Pima Indians. Despite the high familial risk, individuals who live in areas that have not become Westernized do not develop type 2 diabetes.
Obesity
Another strong risk factor for type 2 diabetes is obesity. Young adults and individuals who have been obese for a long period of time are at the highest risk of developing the disease.
Gestational Diabetes
Developing type 2 diabetes while pregnant is referred to as gestational diabetes. High-risk women include older women and obese women. Women with a strong maternal family history of diabetes are more likely to develop gestational diabetes.
