According to the American Diabetes Association, type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes, affecting millions of Americans each year. Unlike type 1 diabetes, specific risk factors and causes have been identified for this form, some of which are in your control. Knowing these factors can help you avert the possible complications resulting from this disease by allowing you to seek treatment in its early stages.
Your Age
As your age increases, so too does your risk for developing type 2 diabetes. The Mayo Clinic states that the risk is greater after the age of 45, and may be attributed to loss of muscle mass, a more sedentary lifestyle and weight gain. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) recommends everyone over the age of 45 undergo a blood glucose test every three years.
Genetics
Family history plays a large role in your risk for developing this type of diabetes. Some of this is due to the habits children pick up from their parents--poor nutrition and no exercise. However there is a genetic link as well.
The American Diabetes Association states that if you were diagnosed with type 2 diabetes before the age of 50, your child's odds of developing the disease are 1 in 7. These odds decrease to 1 in 13 if you were diagnosed after the age of 50. However if both you and your spouse are diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, your child's odds jump to 1 in 2.
Ethnicity
Certain ethnic groups are at an increased risk for developing type 2 diabetes than others. These groups include African-Americans, American Indians, Latinos, Asian-Americans and Native Islanders.
Lifestyle
Your lifestyle is another important factor in determining whether or not you will develop diabetes. This is one factor that you have control over, though.
The first factor is your weight. When you are obese, there are more fatty tissues, which make your cells more resistant to insulin.
Next is your level of activity. The more inactive you are, the higher your risk. Not only does regular physical activity help manage your weight, it also uses excess glucose for energy, which makes your cells more receptive to the insulin they need.
Gestational Diabetes
Gestational diabetes is a condition that occurs in pregnancy, typically the last trimester. Once the baby is born, this condition ends. However, if you suffer from gestational diabetes, you are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes within five years. You may also be at greater risk if your baby weighs 9 lbs. or more at birth and you did not suffer from gestational diabetes during your pregnancy.
