Reducing Your Risk for Type 2 Diabetes: Knowing These Common Risk Factors Can Help

Author: Chantelle van der Merwe

Registered Dietitian (SA) PG Dip Diabetes Management (UK) . Saving those with diabetes one post at a time, from fake diabetes treatment quacks! ​

Did you know that certain risk factors can increase your chances of developing type 2 diabetes? It's important to be aware of these risk factors so you can take proactive steps to minimize your risk. Here are some of the most common risk factors:
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1. Increased age: If you're over the age of 45, you're at a higher risk for type 2 diabetes.
2. Family history: If your mother, father, or sibling has diabetes, your risk is higher.
3. Ethnicity: Certain ethnic groups, such as Asian, Indian, and Coloured populations, have a higher risk for type 2 diabetes.
4. Gestational diabetes: If you had gestational diabetes during pregnancy, your risk is higher.
5. Birth weight: If you were born weighing 4kg or more, or if your mother had gestational diabetes, your risk is higher.
6. Pre-existing conditions: If you've already been diagnosed with pre-diabetes, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), high blood pressure/hypertension, or high cholesterol/dyslipidaemia, your risk is higher.

While having these risk factors doesn't guarantee that you'll develop type 2 diabetes, it's important to be proactive about managing your health. You can minimize your risk by adopting a healthy lifestyle, which includes regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and eating a balanced diet. Additionally, if you have any of the pre-existing conditions listed above, it's important to work with your healthcare provider to manage them effectively and reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Don't wait until it's too late - take control of your health and be proactive about reducing your risk for type 2 diabetes.