Carrying too many additional pounds is a top risk factor for type 2 diabetes. The Body Mass Index (BMI) is the accepted measure for ascertaining body weight in relation to the general health for most individuals (pregnant women, athletes, body builders excluded) in the 20 to 65 age group. A BMI exceeding 27 typically means a risk for type 2 diabetes.
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.Aging increases the risk for type 2 diabetes. Those over 45 years of age are at a higher risk and those over 65 are three times greater than people aged 35 to 64.
Sedentary lifestyle: Exercising regularly and keeping your weight under control reduces your chances for getting type 2 diabetes. Those who have the disease should see an improvement in blood sugar levels as well.
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.
You may have a health risk factor for type 2 diabetes if you have high blood pressure. It's well known that high blood pressure is associated with diabetes. High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a medical condition wherein the blood pressure is chronically elevated. High blood pressure can also create problems for other organs, such as damage to the kidneys.
Diabetes type 2 is often associated with elevated cholesterol, (more than 40 percent have abnormally high cholesterol levels). Managing diabetes is more than keeping blood glucose levels under control, it is very important to manage cholesterol levels through healthy eating, exercise, and use of medications when necessary.
