Is Type 2 Diabetes Genetic?

Type 2 diabetes is a health condition that is caused by a combination of genetics and lifestyle choices. Although you aren't guaranteed to get Type 2 diabetes if someone in your family has it, you are at a higher risk of developing this condition if it runs in your family (via Healthline). There are several gene mutations that contribute to your risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, including mutations in the genes that control the production of glucose, the production of insulin, and the regulation of insulin.

There are many lifestyle and environmental factors that can also increase your risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. Some of these include high blood pressure, low HDL cholesterol levels, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle. Even if Type 2 diabetes runs in your family, there are things you can do to prevent or delay its onset. Maintaining a healthy weight, eating a healthy diet, and getting regular exercise can all help lower your risk of developing this condition. If you have any concerns about your risk of Type 2 diabetes, talk to your doctor. They can help you assess your risk and develop a plan to prevent or delay the onset of this condition.

What to know about Type 2 diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is a condition in which your body does not properly use insulin, a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels (via Mayo Clinic). When this happens, blood sugar levels can become too high. Over time, if left untreated, Type 2 diabetes can lead to serious health problems, including heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, and nerve damage. There are two main types of diabetes: Type 1 and Type 2. Type 2 is the most common form of the disease, accounting for 90 to 95 percent of all cases.

Most people with Type 2 diabetes are overweight or obese. Obesity is a major risk factor for developing Type 2 diabetes. Other risk factors include family history, age, sedentary lifestyle, and race or ethnicity. There is no single cause of Type 2 diabetes. Rather, it is a combination of factors that lead to the condition. Type 2 diabetes can be managed through lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, and medication. With proper treatment, people with Type 2 diabetes can live long and healthy lives.