Why do people get diabetes?

Why Do People Get Diabetes? Causes and Risk Factors for Diabetes

• 1. Causes of Type 1 Diabetes
• 2. Causes of Type 2 Diabetes
• 3. Causes of Gestational Diabetes
• 4. Risk Factors for Diabetes
• 5. Prevention of Diabetes
• Conclusion

Diabetes (also known as diabetes mellitus) is a chronic disease related to insulin metabolism disorders in the body, affecting the process of controlling blood sugar levels. So, why do people get diabetes? Below, we will explain in detail the causes and risk factors that can lead to diabetes.

1. Causes of Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease in which the body's immune system attacks and destroys the beta cells in the pancreas, which are responsible for producing insulin. Insulin is the hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels. When the pancreas can no longer produce insulin, blood sugar levels rise, leading to diabetes.

The exact causes of Type 1 diabetes are still not fully understood, but genetics and environmental factors (such as viral infections) may play an important role.

2. Causes of Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes, accounting for about 90-95% of cases. The main cause of Type 2 diabetes is insulin resistance, meaning the body does not use insulin effectively, even though the pancreas continues to produce enough insulin.

Risk factors for Type 2 diabetes include:

• Genetics: If someone in your family has diabetes, you are at a higher risk of developing it.
• Unhealthy lifestyle: Poor eating habits, overweight, obesity, and lack of physical activity are factors that increase the risk of Type 2 diabetes.
• Age: Older adults (over 45 years old) are at a higher risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.
• High blood pressure and high cholesterol: These conditions can contribute to the development of diabetes.

3. Causes of Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes is a condition in which blood sugar levels become elevated during pregnancy. The exact cause is not yet fully understood, but it is thought to be related to hormonal changes during pregnancy. Risk factors for gestational diabetes include:

• Overweight or obesity.
• Family history of diabetes.
• Being pregnant for the first time or being over 25 years old during pregnancy.

4. Risk Factors for Diabetes

In addition to the direct causes mentioned above, several risk factors can make you more likely to develop diabetes, including:

• Poor diet: Eating foods high in sugar and unhealthy fats increases the risk of diabetes.
• Lack of physical activity: A sedentary lifestyle prevents the body from burning excess energy, which can lead to overweight, obesity, and diabetes.
• Chronic stress: Stress can affect insulin levels and increase the risk of diabetes.

5. Prevention of Diabetes

While you cannot change certain factors like genetics, you can take the following steps to reduce your risk of developing diabetes:

• Maintain a healthy weight: Eat a balanced diet and exercise regularly.
• Increase physical activity: Just 30 minutes of light exercise a day, such as walking, can help control blood sugar levels.
• Monitor blood pressure and cholesterol: Regularly check your blood pressure and cholesterol levels to catch potential health issues related to diabetes early.

Conclusion

Why do people get diabetes? The answer to this question varies depending on the type of diabetes and the risk factors involved. Understanding the causes and risk factors of the disease allows you to prevent and manage diabetes more effectively. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help reduce the risk of developing diabetes and protect your overall health.