Risk factors of Diabetes mellitus

Diabetes risk factors differ depending on the type of diabetes.

You are at risk of developing type 1 diabetes mellitus if you:

  • Have a parent, brother, or sister with type 1 diabetes.
  • Diseases of the pancreas
  • Infection or illness of pancreas: Certain infections and illnesses, most of which are uncommon, can harm your pancreas.

You are at risk of developing type 2 diabetes mellitus if you:

  • Have prediabetes.
  • Are overweight.
  • If you have a high waist measurement.
  • Are 45 years or older.
  • If you have a history of high blood pressure.
  • Have a parent, brother, or sister with type 2 diabetes.
  • Sedentary lifestyle - You are physically active no more than three times per week.
  • Have had diabetes during pregnancy or given birth to a baby weighing more than 9 pounds.
  • Women suffering from polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) are at a higher risk.
  • If you suffer from non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
  • Smoking is related to an increased risk of type 2 diabetes
  • Excessive alcohol consumption is linked to an increased risk of type 2 diabetes.

You’re at risk for diabetes while pregnant if you:

  • Have had gestational diabetes in a previous pregnancy and given birth to a child weighing more than 4 kgs
  • Are overweight and older than 25 years old
  • Have a family history of type 2 diabetes
  • Have a hormone disorder called PCOS