Risk factors

Risk Factors ::

The causes of diabetes mellitus are not exactly known, but there are some factors that can put an individual at risk or develop diabetes. These risk factors depend upon the type of diabetes that one has.

Risk factors for type 1 diabetes:

• Autoimmune,
• Genetic, or
• Environmental

Risk factors for type 2 diabetes:

• A history of being overweight
• A sedentary lifestyle
• Unhealthy dietary habits, alcohol, smoking
• Aging- the risk increases as one gets older  
• Family history of diabetes (Hereditary or genetic)
• A history of gestational diabetes, women who had gestational diabetes during pregnancy or gave birth to a child over 4.5 kg (9 lbs)
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol

A common risk factor for type 1 and type 2 diabetes is genetic (family history of diabetes).