Risk Factors

"Developing type 2 diabetes depends on a combination of risk factors such as genes and lifestyle. Although some risk factors are non-modifiable, such as family history, age, or ethnicity, lifestyle risk factors around eating, physical activity, and weight are modifiable. These lifestyle changes can affect one’s chances of developing type 2 diabetes. You are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes if you are overweight or obese; are age 45 or older; have a family history of diabetes; are African American, Alaska Native, American Indian, Asian American, Hispanic/Latino, Native Hawaiian, or Pacific Islander; have high blood pressure; have a low level of HDL (“good”) cholesterol or a high level of triglycerides; have a history of gestational diabetes or gave birth to a baby weighing 9 pounds or more; are not physically active; have a history of heart disease or stroke; have depression; have polycystic ovary syndrome, also called PCOS; or have acanthosis nigricans—dark, thick, and velvety skin around your neck or armpits. You can also take the Diabetes Risk Test to learn about your risk for type 2 diabetes. Over time, high blood glucose leads to problems such as heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, eye problems, dental disease, nerve damage, and foot problems."