There are various factors that enhance your susceptibility to diabetes. Some of the factors are unavoidable, for example, genetic predisposition. Other factors can be prevented. The risk factors for Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes vary to some extent.
Type 1 Diabetes
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease which occurs due to the destruction of the beta-cells in the pancreas. Studies reveal that the following are the risk factors for Type 1-
• Environment
It has been theorized that the immune system destroys the beta cells as a response to an infection caused by certain viruses or German measles. These viruses may belong to the class of the Coxsackie virus.
• Genetics
All who suffer from the illness mentioned above do not develop Type 1. Certain people are genetically predisposed to getting the ailment. There are indications that this is due to the presence of a particular HLA genotype.
• Ethnicity
Certain ethnic groups are more vulnerable to the ailment, for example, Finland and Sweden have high incidences of Type 1. On the other hand, this disease is relatively uncommon in most African, American Indian, and Asian communities.
• Abnormal Secretion Of Certain Hormones
The abnormal secretion of certain hormones in the blood can cause type 1 diabetes. For example, Adrenocortical hormone, Adrenaline hormone and Thyroid hormone inhibit the function of insulin.
• Diet
According to researchers, poor diet or malnutrition is also a risk factor. A study shows that children who have not been breastfed are twice more likely to have Type 1 diabetes than babies who have been breastfed for at least three months.
• Medication
Certain medications destroy the pancreatic cells, for example, streptozotocin, which is used in chemotherapy to treat pancreatic cancer. This causes Type 1 diabetes.
• Pancreatic Complications
Certain complications relating to the pancreas can increase the risk of occurrence of type 1. This includes trauma, pancreatitis or tumors.
Type 2 Diabetes
The risk factors for Type 2 are as follows:
• Family History
It has been observed that persons whose immediate family has type 2 diabetes are more susceptible to the disease. Certain ethnic groups like African Americans, Hispanic Americans and Native Americans are more prone to the disease.
• Low Levels Of Activity
The blood glucose levels come down with exercise. Thus, those who exercise regularly have a comparatively lower risk of getting diabetes.
• Excess Body Weight
Excess fat can lead to insulin resistance. Thus, it is not surprising that obesity is the major cause of Type 2 diabetes.
• Gestational Diabetes
Women who have had gestational diabetes are at a great risk of developing Type 2 at a later stage in life. Their children too may become diabetic.
• Age
As you grow older, you are more prone to diabetes. Researchers suggest the pancreas become less efficient as they age. The cells also become more resistant to insulin.
• High Blood Pressure And Cholesterol Levels
High triglyceride and cholesterol levels put you at a greater risk of diabetes.
• Diet
If your diet consists of an excessive amount of fat and carbohydrates and inadequate amount of fibre, you run the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. Such a diet will also increase your weight.
It is advisable to consult your physician and get yourself tested if you feel that you are at risk of getting diabetes.