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Etiology (Risk Factors)
Family History/Genetic Risk
An individual with a family member diagnosed with Type 2 is at greater risk for developing diabetes himself or herself. If an individual is diagnosed by the age of 50 with Type 2 their offspring's risk is around 15%; after the age of 50 it is around 8%. The risk is greater if the mother has Type 2. If both parents have a Type 2 diagnosis the risk to offspring is 50%. (3,15,31)
"As many as 20%-60% of people in the general population may be genetically susceptible to Type 2 diabetes." (30) Several "candidate genes" have been discovered and linked to the inheritance of Type 2. As yet, there appears to be no clear understanding of the way an individual "inherits" diabetes.
Age
As we age, we are more at risk for developing Type 2. The risk increases dramatically after the age of 40. Specifically, those aged 65-74 years are at highest risk. However, onset of Type 2 under the age of 30 is becoming more common. High-risk groups are more likely to develop Type 2 at an earlier age. (31)
Gender
There is no significant difference related to gender. (3)
Race/Ethnicity & Geographic Distribution
Type 2 is strongly linked to western cultures. When there is a high genetic risk for onset, individuals living in non-westernized cultures are less likely to develop Type 2. (3,4,21,31)
Obesity
Considered a strong risk factor, obesity places many at risk. Location of body fat (abdominal) and duration of obesity are believed to be significant in increasing risk. The combination of obesity and a family history of diabetes are considered to greatly increase the incidence of Type 2. (3,31)
Other Risk Factors
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