What are the Risk Factors of Diabetes Mellitus?

Diabetes Mellitus Risk Factors: Causes & Prevention

Diabetes Mellitus is a chronic form of metabolic disorder characterised by higher glucose levels in the blood. This happens due to defects in insulin production or action. The two primary types of Diabetes Mellitus that affect individuals are Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. The latter affects more people globally.

Hence, it is important to know about the associated risk factors for preventing Diabetes Mellitus. 

Common Risk Factors of Diabetes Mellitus

Here is a list of some of the more common associated risk factors that cause Diabetes Mellitus in individuals:

●  Influence of Genetics and Family History

This is a non-modifiable risk factor for diabetes, especially Type 2. Individuals who have a relative or family member with diabetes have a higher chance of developing the same condition. There are also certain types of gene mutations linked to the onset of both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes.

●  Age of an Individual

The risk of getting Type 2 diabetes increases as a person ages, especially after one crosses the age of 45. As people age, they become less active, lose muscle mass and gain weight. This leads to insulin resistance.

●  Ethnicity of an Individual

Particular ethnic groups are more prone to diabetes. People who are of these ethnicities have a higher risk of getting diabetes: Native American, Hispanic, African, Pacific Islander and South Asian. This happens due to a combination of cultural, socioeconomic and genetic factors.

●  Leading a Sedentary Lifestyle

Physical inactivity has a direct link with an increased risk of diabetes. Doing regular physical activity can help an individual manage weight, which will also help use glucose. This improves the body's insulin sensitivity. A lack of exercise is detrimental to health and causes weight gain and insulin resistance.

●  Making Poor Diet Choices

Having a diet rich in processed foods, like refined sugars and saturated fats, can increase the chance of an individual getting diabetes. Frequent consumption of white bread, sugary beverages and red meats is also linked with getting Type 2 diabetes.

●  Excessive Alcohol Consumption

Active smoking can increase the risk of Type 2 Diabetes by contributing to inflammation and insulin resistance. Excessive alcohol intake also impairs glucose metabolism and increases an individual’s body weight. This leads to an increased risk of getting Diabetes.

●  Chronic Stress

Having chronic stress leads to hormonal imbalances, which affect the glucose levels of the body. The stress hormone called Cortisol actively increases blood sugar levels, which contributes to the increase in insulin resistance.

●  Having Sleep Disorders

Having sleep apnea, irregular sleep patterns, and poor sleep quality affects glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity in our body. It increases the overall risk of getting Diabetes.

By properly understanding and assessing the risk factors related to Diabetes Mellitus, one can prevent it altogether. Furthermore, it will also help reduce its impact on individuals and healthcare systems. Even though some factors are non-modifiable, making healthy lifestyle choices can help to curb the onset of Diabetes.