Although the risk factors are not very well defined, it appears that the development of T1DM can be triggered by genetic and environmental factors.

• Age
The prevalence increases with age but it is now affecting more children and adolescents.


• Family history of diabetes
Persons with a positive family history are more prone to diabetes.


• Race/ethnicity
Certain races show a greater tendency to develop diabetes but it could be due to genetic or environmental factors, especially nutrition in fetal life.

• Abnormal nutrition
Both under- and over-nutrition play a major role in the development of T2DM. Under-nutrition mainly in the womb leads to increased insulin resistance and together with over-nutrition after birth leads to being overweight as well as obesity and T2DM in early life.


• Physical inactivity
Physical inactivity is the most significant risk factor. Physical exercise in adequate amounts on a regular basis to maintain ideal body weight is the most important factor in the modern environment where comfort governs pleasurable pursuits.


• Pre-diabetes
Impaired Fasting Glycaemia (IFG) or Impaired Glucose Tolerance (IGT) puts you at an increased risk and should be actively corrected through proper nutrition, exercise, and stress control.


• Diabetes during pregnancy
GDM poses a risk to both mother and child in later life and should be properly monitored and controlled.


• Stress
Stress related hormonal and metabolic changes are associated with nutrition, psychosocial problems and infections poses as an additional risk factor to the development of T2DM.
If you have any of the above risk factors it is wise to discuss them with your doctor and monitor your blood sugar levels – (fasting or postprandial)