The risk factors for type 2 diabetes

Obesity. Being overweight is a leading risk factor for type 2 diabetes. The Body Mass Index (BMI) is the standard for determining body weight relative to health for most patients in the age group of 20 to 65 (excluding the highly conditioned such as athletes, or women who are nursing or pregnant.) A Body Mass Index in excess of 27 signals a risk for type 2 diabetes, and other complications such as heart disease, and early death.

Having an apple-shaped figure (too much fat above the hips) generally signals a greater risk factor for type 2 diabetes than for individuals with a pear-shaped figure (too much fat in the thighs and hips). Males with a waist measurement of larger than 39.5 in. (100 cm), and females, larger than 37.5 in. (95 cm) are considered to be at greater risk.

As we age the risks of type 2 diabetes become greater. When we age beyond 45 we are at a greater risk than before and when we are 65 and older we are three times higher than those in the 35 to 64 age group.

Staying physically fit and keeping our weight in check minimizes our chances for acquiring type 2 diabetes. Eating a proper diet and exercising regularly will also help improve blood sugar levels for those who already have the disease.

If type 2 diabetes is present in a first-degree relative (parent or sibling) you are at risk too.

Nearly 40 percent of women who have diabetes while being pregnant will develop type 2. Usually within five to ten years after delivery.

Having impaired glucose tolerance is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes. This can occur prior to the development of type 2 . While people with this risk factor alone are not considered to have the disease, the resulting abnormal blood sugar levels puts them at increased danger for type 2 and also cardiovascular disease. As we get older our glucose tolerance decreases, along with our chances for getting type 2 diabetes and hyperglycemia.

Ethnic Ancestry: Those of African, Aboriginal, Asian or Latin American ancestry are at greater risk of having type 2 diabetes.

High Blood Pressure is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes that is common in as many as 6 out of 10 people with undiagnosed diabetes.

High Cholesterol and type 2 diabetes go hand in hand. Preventing and controlling diabetes goes beyond blood sugar control. Cholesterol levels should be managed with diet, exercise and the proper medications.

Article Source: http://www.articlegoldmine.com

It's important to know the type 2 diabetes risk factors and John Richmond, a frequent contributor to YourDiabetesInfo.com and diabetes researcher has other interesting articles there as well.

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