Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes. Most of the people with diabetes in the United States have type 2 diabetes, and it is on the rise, especially in younger people. More preteens, teens, and young adults are being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes than ever before.
Causes
Like type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes is inherited. This means a group of genes that can lead to type 2 is passed down from mothers and fathers to their children. Not everyone who inherits the genes will develop it, but if you have the genes for type 2 diabetes, you’ve got a greater chance of developing it. Your chances are even higher if you’re also overweight and don’t get much exercise.
Having a sweet tooth won’t cause type 2 diabetes, but a diet high in simple sugars and other unhealthy foods can cause you to gain weight. Most people who are diagnosed with type 2 diabetes are overweight.
In addition to being overweight, there are some other factors that put a person at a higher risk for developing type 2 diabetes, including:
- Having a family history of diabetes.
- Being older than 40.
- Having gestational diabetes during a pregnancy.
- Giving birth to a baby weighing more than 9 pounds.
- Being African American, Hispanic American, Asian American, or Native American.
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