Risk Factors for Type 2 Diabetes.

The cause of type 2 diabetes is still a matter of debate, but it appears to be related to genetics and lifestyle factors such as obesity, inactivity, and stress. While the cause of type 2 diabetes is still unclear, it is known that genetics, environment, and lifestyle all play a role. You cannot change some of the risk factors for type 2 diabetes, such as age and family history, but there are several things you can do outside of these factors to help reduce your risk.

Here are known risk factors for developing type 2 diabetes:
• Age. Being 45 or older is considered a risk factor for type 2 diabetes. The risk of type 2 diabetes is low before age 30, then rises with increasing age.
• Family history and genetics. Having parents or siblings with diabetes is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes.
• HDL. An HDL (high-density lipoprotein) cholesterol level of 35 mg/dl (0.9 mmol/l) or lower is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes.
• Triglycerides. A triglyceride level of 250 mg/dl (2.82 mmol/l) or higher is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes.
• Inactivity. A lack of regular physical activity is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes.
• Obesity. Being overweight can significantly increase your chances of developing diabetes. Having a body mass index (BMI) of 25 or higher is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes.
• Hypertension. A systolic (top number) blood pressure of 140 mmHg or greater, or a diastolic (bottom number) blood pressure of 90 mmHg or higher is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes.
• Gestational diabetes. Women with a history of gestational diabetes and/or women who have given birth to a baby weighing more than 9 pounds are considered at higher risk for type 2 diabetes.