Type 2 Diabetes: Know Your Risk to Lower Your Risk

March 24th is Diabetes Alert Day. Did you know that 29 million people in the United States have type 2 diabetes? This amounts to almost 95 percent of all diabetes diagnoses – and that number is rising. While there are some diabetes risk factors that cannot be controlled, many lifestyle factors can be adjusted. Make sure you know what these risk factors are so you can reduce your chances of developing type 2 diabetes.

Some factors that put you at a greater risk for type 2 diabetes but cannot be controlled include:

• Family history of diabetes
• Being over the age of 45
• Being Hispanic, Native American, Asian American, or African American
• Having polycystic ovary syndrome
• Having a personal history of gestational diabetes

However, there are some lifestyle changes you can make to reduce your chances of developing type 2 diabetes. Consider making adjustments in your life if you:

• Have prediabetes
• Are overweight
• Are not physically active
• Have heart disease or high blood pressure
• Have low levels of good cholesterol
• Have a high level of triglycerides

If one or more of these type 2 diabetes risk factors apply to you, speak with your doctor right away to determine how you can be proactive in making the correct changes. This could include determining a new diet plan, implementing more exercise into your daily routine, or considering medication. Depending on your specific situation, your doctor can make the best recommendations.