Who Is at Risk for Diabetes?

Diabetes is a chronic disease, which affects 7 percent of the population, according to the American Diabetes Association. Type 1 diabetes is not preventable, but you may be able to prevent Type 2 diabetes. Ninety to 95 percent of diabetes in the United States is Type 2.

Age

• Individuals, who are 40 years or older, are more at risk of developing diabetes.

Lifestyle

• Inactive lifestyle and obesity are risk factors of Type 2 diabetics, so doctors suggest that patients eat well-balanced meals and exercise at least 30 minutes each day.

Family

• Family history of diabetes is a risk factor for developing the disease. High-risk groups also include African-Americans, Hispanics, Pan-Asians and Native Americans.

Gestational Diabetes

• Pregnant women who have a family history of diabetes and are overweight are at risk of having diabetes while pregnant.

Blood Pressure and Cholesterol

• People who have high blood pressure and high cholesterol levels are at a higher risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, as well as cardiovascular disease.