Is Type 2 Diabetes Genetic?

What is Type 2 Diabetes?

Also called adult onset diabetes, this is a chronic health condition in which the body either doesn’t produce enough insulin or it resists insulin. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas which helps glucose enter the body cells and be used as energy.

Type 2 Diabetes- The Role of Genetics

Genetics plays a very strong role in the development of Type 2 diabetes. Apart from this, environmental factors and race also contributes to its development. While not everyone with a family history of type 2 diabetes will develop the condition, you’re more likely to suffer from it if your parent or sibling has it. So if you have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, there is a higher chance that you are not the first person with diabetes in your family.

Gene mutation has also been linked to a higher diabetes risk. But, not everyone who carries a mutation will get diabetes. However, most people with diabetes do have one or more of these mutations. It is also difficult to differentiate genetic risks from environmental risks as the latter is often influenced by your family members.

Genes Responsible for Type 2 Diabetes

The risk of type 2 diabetes is affected by several mutations and each additional mutation increases the probability. When genes that are responsible for keeping glucose level in control undergo mutation, the risk of developing this condition increases. This includes genes that control:

• Production of glucose

• Production and regulation of insulin

• How glucose levels are sensed in the body

ABCC8, TCF7L2, GLUT2, CAPN10, GCGR are examples of genes that are associated with risk of type 2 diabetes.

What's My Risk for Developing Type 2 Diabetes?

The chances of you developing type 2 diabetes depend on several factors. While factors like family history is not in your control and it can’t be changed, certain lifestyle-related factors can be modified to decrease your chances of developing the condition. You are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes if you:

• Have Pre-diabetes

• Have several gene mutations associated with type 2 diabetes

• Have family history of diabetes

• Are 45 years and older

• Have been diagnosed with hypertension

• Are Physically less active or inactive i.e. less than 3 times a week

• Have had diabetes while pregnant (gestational diabetes)

• Have low level of HDL or good cholesterol

• Have PCOS

• Have history of heart disease or stroke

Genetic Testing for Type 2 Diabetes

There are certain types of tests available that can help detect some of the gene mutations associated with type 2 diabetes. However, the increased risk of any given mutation is small. Apart from this, other factors that can help predict whether you will develop type 2 diabetes include:

• Family’s medical history

• High blood pressure

• Body mass index or BMI

• Any previous record of gestational diabetes

• High levels of cholesterol

Tips for Diabetes Prevention

You can reduce the risk of developing diabetes by modifying your habits. This includes:

1. Add physical activity into your daily routine and slowly also add light weight training sessions & other cardiovascular activities. One should aim for 30 minutes of exercise each day. Remember to consult your doctor before starting any new fitness regime.

2. Follow a healthy and balanced diet plan and try to cook your own meals as this is the easiest way to make nutrient-dense choices. Also, in-between meals opt for nutrient-dense snacks to keep your body fueled and energy levels high. These snack options include carrot sticks & hummus, apples, handful of nuts, whole grain crackers etc.

3. Weight management – Controlling weight can help reduce the chances to develop type 2 diabetes. In a recent large-scale case study, it was found that a group of individuals have lowered the risk of developing diabetes by 58% after losing nearly 7% of their body weight. Experts also suggest individuals with prediabetes, lose around 7-10% of body weight to prevent its progression.