Type 2 Diabetes Awareness

Type 2 diabetes is a metabolic disorder that occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t produce enough insulin to maintain normal blood sugar levels. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that helps transport glucose (sugar) from the bloodstream into the cells of the body where it can be used for energy.

There are several risk factors that can contribute to the development of type 2 diabetes, including:

1. Obesity: Being overweight or obese is a major risk factor for type 2 diabetes because it can cause insulin resistance.

2. Sedentary lifestyle: Lack of physical activity and prolonged sitting can contribute to the development of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.

3. Genetics: There is a genetic component to type 2 diabetes, and having a family history of the condition increases the risk.

4. Age: The risk of type 2 diabetes increases with age, especially after the age of 45.

5. High blood pressure: Having high blood pressure can increase the risk of type 2 diabetes.

6. Abnormal cholesterol levels: High triglycerides and low HDL (good) cholesterol levels can increase the risk of type 2 diabetes.

7. Ethnicity: Certain ethnic groups, such as African Americans, Hispanic Americans, and Asian Americans, are at higher risk for type 2 diabetes.

8. Gestational diabetes: Women who have had gestational diabetes (diabetes during pregnancy) are at higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.

It’s important to note that type 2 diabetes is a complex condition with multiple contributing factors, and not all people who have these risk factors will develop diabetes. Maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, and staying physically active can help reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.