The following information is excerpted from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention diabetes education webpage:
Type 1 Diabetes
Type 1 Diabetes is thought to be caused by an immune reaction (the body attacks itself by mistake). Risk factors for Type 1 Diabetes are not as clear as for prediabetes and type 2 diabetes. Known risk factors include:
- Family History: Having a parent, brother, or sister with type 1 diabetes.
- Age: You can get type 1 diabetes at any age, but it usually develops in children, teens, or young adults.
In the United States, White people are more likely to develop type 1 diabetes than African American and Hispanic or Latino people. Currently, no one knows how to prevent type 1 diabetes.
Type 2 Diabetes
You’re at risk for Type 2 Diabetes if you:
- Have prediabetes.
- Are overweight.
- Are 45 years or older.
- Have a parent, brother, or sister with type 2 diabetes.
- Are physically active less than 3 times a week.
- Have ever had gestational diabetes (diabetes during pregnancy) or given birth to a baby who weighed over 9 pounds.
- Are an African American, Hispanic or Latino, American Indian, or Alaska Native person. Some Pacific Islanders and Asian American people are also at higher risk.
If you have non-alcoholic fatty liver disease you may also be at risk for type 2 diabetes. You can prevent or delay type 2 diabetes with proven lifestyle changes. These include losing weight if you’re overweight, eating a healthy diet and getting regular physical activity.
Prediabetes
You’re at risk for prediabetes if you:
- Are overweight.
- Are 45 years or older.
- Have a parent, brother, or sister with type 2 diabetes.
- Are physically active less than 3 times a week.
- Have ever had gestational diabetes (diabetes during pregnancy) or given birth to a baby who weighed over 9 pounds.
- Are an African American, Hispanic or Latino, American Indian, or Alaska Native person. Some Pacific Islander and Asian American people are also at higher risk.
You can prevent or reverse prediabetes with proven lifestyle changes.
If you’re concerned about your risk factors for diabetes, or need help controlling your diabetic condition, contact a PHC clinic near you to schedule an appointment. Talk to your healthcare provider to find out what is best for you!