The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that the number of people with diabetes has dramatically increased from 108 million in 1980 to a staggering 422 million in 2014. This continues to increase, with many people still undiagnosed.
Diabetes is not a simple disease, but it’s a chronic and long-lasting illness that can lead to kidney failure, heart attacks, blindness, lower limb amputation, and stroke if left untreated. Treating diabetes is important to prevent these complications.
For patients with a limited budget, a Victoza assistance program is available to help. Also, knowing the different risk factors can help in preventing the disease and detecting it early.
Genetics
Family history plays a major role in the development of diabetes. In fact, you’re about two to six times more likely to have diabetes if you have a parent, sister, or brother with diabetes.
Being Overweight or Obese
Studies have shown that being overweight or obese is a top reason for Type 2 diabetes. The risk becomes higher if there are excessive fats around the abdominal area.
Age
The risk of having Type 2 diabetes heightens if you are 45 years old and above, particularly those who are also obese.
Ethnicity
The risk also increases when your ethnicity is Hispanic, African-American, American, Asian-American, Alaska Natives, or Pacific Islanders.
Physical Inactivity
The less active you are, the heightened the risk of having diabetes. Exercise and physical activity aids in weight control. Also, you use up glucose as energy, making the cell’s insulin sensitive.
Gestational Diabetes
For ladies who experienced having gestational diabetes while pregnant, the risk of developing diabetes later in life also increases.
Diabetes is a preventable disease. Know the risk factors of diabetes in order for you to prevent it.