Contributing Factors Linked to the Type 2 Diabetes Epidemic

As the type 2 diabetes epidemic continues to grow, researchers have started looking into what other kinds of contributing factors (other than obesity) might be playing a role in the onset of type 2 diabetes. While the existing collection of research on type 2 diabetes has shown that there is definitely a significant connection between type 2 diabetes and obesity, more recent studies have identified at least 3 other additional factors that could be contributing to the type 2 diabetes epidemic. Although the concept of obesity not being the only cause for type 2 diabetes is not a new idea, these newer studies help provide valuable insight into the various factors contributing to a type 2 diabetes diagnosis, which can help the experts identify more effective strategies for prevention and develop more successful treatment options.

Contributing Factors Linked to the Growing Type 2 Diabetes Epidemic Include:

-- Obesity

-- Genetic mutations

-- A hormone called amylin

-- Disturbances in the body’s natural clock

While “obesity is clearly a part of type 2 diabetes for most people,” a person’s weight can’t be used as a sole predictor for their risks of developing type 2 diabetes. Like Dr. Christine Resta, an endocrinologist at MaimonidesMedicalCenter in New York City said, “there are thin people who get type 2 diabetes, and some people -- no matter what they weigh -- just won't get diabetes.”  With that being said, it is important to note that your weight still remains one of the most significant and controllable factors related to the prevention and management of type 2 diabetes.  Like Dr. Resta went on to explain, “if people lose just 5 to 10 percent of their body weight, they can make a difference in their diabetes.” Dr. Resta also explained that a type 2 diabetes diagnosis is probably about half luck (being caused by uncontrollable factors like your genes and family history) and half your lifestyle (being caused by things you do, or don’t do).

Type 2 diabetes is a condition where the body is unable to properly use insulin. According to the 2014 statistics report from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “at least 1 out of 3 people will develop the disease in their lifetime.” It’s rather alarming to see statistics reporting that in just one year (2012) there were 1.7 million people over the age of 20 years old were diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, especially since type 2 diabetes can be prevented in most cases! While you might not be able to control your genetics, you do have control over your lifestyle. Making an effort to maintain a healthier weight, follow a well-balanced diet plan, regulate your sleeping schedule, and lead a more active lifestyle are all effective ways to help reduce your risks for type 2 diabetes.

Source:

http://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/pubs/statsreport14/diabetes-infographic.pdf http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/news/fullstory_148572.html