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Risk Factors Associated With Diabetes

There are few diabetes risk factors that may be a threat to you. Take a look at this article to know what these factors are and how are they responsible for diabetes.

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a chronic (long lasting) health condition that occurs either when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin (a hormone that regulates blood sugar) or when the body cannot effectively use the insulin it produces.

Types of Diabetes

There are 3 types of diabetes:

1. Type 1 diabetes

A chronic condition where the pancreas produces little or no insulin. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disorder and is commonly diagnosed in children.

2. Type 2 diabetes

A condition which results from insufficient production of insulin, causing high blood sugar. It is mostly referred as a lifestyle disorder.

3. Gestational diabetes

A condition in which women develop diabetes during pregnancy.

Diabetes Risk Factors

1. Type 1 Diabetes

While risk factors for type 1 diabetes are not clear, known risk factors include:

- Family history: Having a parent, brother, or sister with type 1 diabetes.

- Age: You can get type 1 diabetes at any age, but it usually develops in children, teens, or young adults.

2. Type 2 Diabetes

You’re at risk for type 2 diabetes if you:

- Have prediabetes.

- Are 45 years or older.

- Are overweight.

- Are physically active less than 3 times a week.

- Have ever had gestational diabetes (diabetes during pregnancy) or given birth to a baby who weighed over 9 pounds.

- Have a parent, brother, or sister with type 2 diabetes.

You can prevent or delay type 2 diabetes with certain lifestyle changes which includes:

- Losing weight if you’re overweight

- Following a healthy and balanced diet

- Regular physical activity

3. Gestational Diabetes

You are at risk for gestational diabetes if you:

- Had gestational diabetes during a previous pregnancy.

- Have given birth to a baby who weighed over 9 pounds.

- Are overweight.

- Are more than 25 years old.

- Have a family history of type 2 diabetes.

- Have a hormone disorder called polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Gestational diabetes usually goes away after you give birth, but it increases your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Your baby is more likely to be obese as a child or teen, and also to develop type 2 diabetes at later stage in life.

Before you get pregnant, you may be able to prevent gestational diabetes with certain lifestyle changes which includes losing weight, eating a healthy diet, and doing regular physical activity.

Conclusion

Look out for above mentioned diabetes risk factors and if you believe you have diabetes then get in touch with your doctor immediately. Getting on top of your condition and managing it effectively is the key to controlling your symptoms and preventing more serious health problems.

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Source: Healthline, Mayoclinic, CDC.Gov

Disclaimer: This blog provides general information and discussions about health and related subjects. The information and other content provided in this blog, website or in any linked materials are not intended and should not be considered, or used as a substitute for, medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Kindly contact your Doctor before starting a new medicine or health regime.

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Published on June 06, 2023