Prediabetes Risk Factors
If you think that you might have prediabetes, or you have a family history of prediabetes and type 2 diabetes, then you should understand the risk factors. There are many risk factors that may increase your chances of getting prediabetes or type 2 diabetes. Conversely, knowing these risk factors can help you to change your habits and to work to prevent these conditions from becoming a part of your life.
Weight
Everyone knows that it is not in your best interest to be overweight. This is particularly true if you have a family history of diabetes. Being overweight is a primary risk factor for prediabetes. Your cells become more resistant to insulin if you have fatty tissue - especially if that fat is around your stomach. Try to lose weight and to eat right. Get exercise as much as possible and stay fit. Remember that maintaining a good weight isn't just about looking good - it's about staying healthy.
Inactivity
If you're a couch potato, you're putting yourself at greater risk for developing prediabetes. Physical activity helps you to control your weight and it makes your cells more sensitive to insulin by using glucose as energy.
Age
As you get older, you increase your risk of developing prediabetes. This is especially true as you hit the age of 45 and above. This is because people tend to exercise less, to lose muscle mass and to gain weight as they get older. This is not to say, however, that adolescents and children can have prediabetes and diabetes.
Family History
We all know that we can't escape our family history. So, too, with prediabetes and diabetes. If you have a parent or a sibling with type 2 diabetes, then your risk of developing prediabetes increases.
Race
Doctors and researchers don't know why, but people of certain races are more likely to develop prediabetes than are others. These races include Blacks, Hispanics, American Indians and Asians. If you are from one of these groups, then you should pay more attention and get tested.
Gestational Diabetes
If you have gestational diabetes while pregnant, then your risk of developing type 2 diabetes later increases. Similarly, even if you didn't develop gestational diabetes, but you delivered a baby over 9 pounds, you are also at increased risk of diabetes.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
This syndrome increases your risk of developing prediabetes and diabetes. This condition usually includes irregular menstrual periods, excess hair growth and obesity.
Other conditions that you should watch for include high blood pressure, high levels of LDL cholesterol, low levels of HDL cholesterol and high levels of triglycerides.
If you fall under any of these categories, it is important to pay attention to your health and to consult your doctor to get tested for prediabetes. There are two easy tests that your doctor can perform to look for prediabetes. Make sure to know your risks and to take care of yourself!
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