Diabetes Risk Factors (Part: 4/7)
The likelihood of developing diabetes varies with the specific type of the disease. A family history of diabetes can influence the risk across all forms. Additionally, environmental factors and geographic location may increase the chance of getting type 1 diabetes.
For individuals with a family member who has type 1 diabetes, testing for diabetes-related autoantibodies, which are immune system cells, might be recommended. Possessing these autoantibodies elevates the risk of developing type 1 diabetes, although not everyone with these autoantibodies will necessarily develop the condition.
Moreover, your race or ethnic background can affect your risk level for type 2 diabetes. It's observed that certain groups, including Black, Hispanic, American Indian, and Asian American individuals, face a higher risk, though the exact reasons remain unclear.
Being overweight or obese is a significant risk factor for prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, and gestational diabetes, underscoring the importance of maintaining a healthy weight to reduce the risk of these conditions.
