Risk of type 2 diabetes
Awareness of the risk factors for developing type 2 diabetes is important for monitoring and managing personal risk of developing the condition.
Some risk factors for developing type 2 diabetes are modifiable through changes in lifestyle behaviours while others are non-modifiable such as age. Common modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors are described below.
It's important to note that having one or more of these risk factors doesn't guarantee a person will develop type 2 diabetes. Reducing risk of type 2 diabetes involves making lifestyle behaviour changes, such as maintaining a healthy weight, being physically active, and eating nutritious foods.
Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider is beneficial for monitoring ongoing risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Modifiable risk factors
Obesity
Excess body weight, especially around the abdomen, is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes. Fat cells can interfere with the body's ability to use insulin properly.
Stress
Chronic stress may contribute to the development of type 2 diabetes by triggering unhealthy behaviours like overeating, restricted diet, and limited exercise.
Unhealthy diet
High consumption of processed foods contributes to weight gain and insulin resistance. A diet that includes more fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains is beneficial for overall health .
High Cholesterol Levels
Abnormal lipid levels, particularly high levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and low levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, can increase the risk of diabetes.
Physical Inactivity
Lack of regular physical activity increases the risk of type 2 diabetes. Regular moderate-intensity exercise helps the body use insulin more effectively.
Smoking
Smoking is associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes. The chemicals in tobacco can harm cells' ability to use insulin and increase inflammation.
Non-modifiable risk factors
Ethnic Background
Some ethnic groups including, First Nations people, Southeast Asians, Indian subcontinent, African, and Hispanics are at a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Family History
If you have a family history of diabetes, particularly in close relatives like parents or siblings, your risk of developing diabetes is higher. Certain genes may predispose individuals to diabetes.
Gestational Diabetes
If you developed gestational diabetes during pregnancy or had a baby weighing more than 9 pounds, you may be at higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.
Age
The risk of type 2 diabetes increases with age, especially after the age of 45. However, type 1 diabetes can occur at any age, but it is most diagnosed in children.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
PCOS is a hormonal disorder that affects women, and it is often associated with insulin resistance, which can lead to an increased risk of type 2 diabetes.
Type 2 diabetes risk calculator
The Australia Diabetes Risk Assessment Tool (AUSDRISK) is a brief questionnaire (10 questions) developed by the Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Institute, designed to evaluate the risk of an individual developing type 2 diabetes in the next 5 years. It can be completed independently or with the assistance of a healthcare professional.
Find out more about AUSDRISK here.
