Diabetes is a deceptive disease. Although this health problem is well-known nowadays, many people who live with diabetes are unaware of their illness. Often, Bastrop diabetes does not trigger obvious symptoms, especially in its early phases. As such, it is vital to understand the diabetes risk factors to effectively mitigate them and prevent more severe impacts and damage associated with the disease. Read on to discover the 8 major risk factors to watch out for.

1.         Family History

Certain genes can raise the likelihood of developing type I diabetes. Therefore, your chance of developing diabetes rises if a sibling, parent, or close relative has diabetes. Consult your physician for a genetic test to determine if you are at risk.

2.         Age

Even without other risk factors, the probability of acquiring diabetes rises with age. Many younger persons today suffer from this chronic condition because of bad lifestyle choices. Likewise, childhood obesity greatly contributes to the upsurge of diabetes cases in kids.

3.         Excess Body Fat

Your cells absorb sugar or glucose and use it for numerous body functions. Insulin is a hormone that regulates sugar intake by the body’s cells. However, if there are increased free fatty acids within your cells, they become insulin-resistant, and sugar absorption is diminished. This issue leads to high blood sugar levels. Insulin resistance is the primary reason for diabetes, which impacts millions worldwide.

4.         Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes is a disease, wherein normally healthy pregnant women experience elevated blood sugar levels. Women with gestational diabetes have an increased chance of acquiring prediabetes and type II diabetes.

5.         Sedentary Living

Less physical activity increases the risk of developing diabetes. Physical activity aids in weight control, enhances glucose uptake by cells for energy, and renders cells more insulin-sensitive. Therefore, if your occupation demands long sitting hours or you do not exercise often, you are more vulnerable to diabetes.

6.         High Blood Pressure

Diabetes and hypertension are tightly connected. Blood pressure greater than 140/90 mmHg is associated with a higher risk of diabetes.

7.         Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

PCOS has surprisingly become a major health concern for women in recent years. This disorder affects a woman’s hormone levels and causes various issues, including undesirable body hair, weight gain, infertility, irregular periods, acne, and more. Considering that PCOS creates hormone imbalances, it is essential to examine different hormonal parameters.

Your physician will make a diagnosis by correlating the findings with the symptoms. Insulin resistance of body cells is believed to be the primary cause of PCOS-associated diabetes risk. Elevated blood sugar levels ensue if glucose is not utilized by the body’s cells.

8.         Unhealthy levels of cholesterol

Decreased amounts of good cholesterol or elevated concentrations of bad cholesterol are associated with increased levels of free fatty acids within the body cells. This condition increases the chance of acquiring diabetes.

Another form of fat transported in the blood is triglycerides. Individuals with high triglyceride levels have a higher likelihood of developing diabetes. The lipid profile test measures your levels of triglycerides and cholesterol.

Having a risk factor for diabetes does not necessarily imply you will develop the condition. While specific risk factors, such as family history and age, are uncontrollable, other factors, like obesity, are controllable with a measure of health consciousness and genuine effort. Routine health screenings can also help you avoid chronic illnesses like diabetes.

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