Diabetes is a chronic health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterised by high blood glucose levels, which, if left unmanaged, can lead to serious health complications. While lifestyle factors like diet and exercise play a significant role in the development of diabetes, genetics can also be a key factor. This blog will explore whether diabetes is genetic, the different types of diabetes, and how your family history might influence your risk.
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What is Diabetes?
Diabetes is a condition that occurs when the body either does not produce enough insulin (a hormone that allows the body to use blood glucose as energy) or cannot effectively use the insulin it produces. There are several types of diabetes, but the most common are Type 1, Type 2, and gestational diabetes.
- Type 1 Diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas - resulting in the person requiring lifelong insulin therapy. It can develop at any age, however childhood and adolescence are the most common.
- Type 2 Diabetes is more common and occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin or when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin. It is often associated with obesity and a sedentary lifestyle.
- Gestational Diabetes develops during pregnancy and usually goes away after the baby is born. However, it increases the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life.
Is Diabetes Genetic?
The short answer is yes, genetics can play a significant role in the development of both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. However, the way genetics influence each type of diabetes differs.
Genetics and Type 1 Diabetes
Type 1 diabetes is strongly linked to genetics, but it is not inherited in a straightforward manner like some other genetic conditions. The presence of certain genes, such as those in the HLA (human leukocyte antigen) complex, can increase the risk of developing Type 1 diabetes. However, not everyone with these genes will develop the condition, indicating that environmental factors also play a crucial role.
If you have a close relative with Type 1 diabetes, such as a parent or sibling, your risk of developing the condition is higher. According to research, if a father has Type 1 diabetes, there is about a 6% risk that his child will develop the condition. The risk is slightly lower if the mother has the condition, at around 2-4% .
Genetics and Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes has a stronger genetic component compared to Type 1. If you have a family history of Type 2 diabetes, your risk of developing the condition is significantly higher. For example, if one of your parents has Type 2 diabetes, your risk of developing it is 40%, and if both parents have it, your risk rises to around 70% .
Studies have identified multiple genes that are associated with an increased risk of Type 2 diabetes. However, the condition is also heavily influenced by lifestyle factors such as diet, physical activity, and body weight. Even if you have a genetic predisposition, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can greatly reduce your risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.
Other Factors Influencing Diabetes Risk
While genetics can influence your risk of developing diabetes, they are not the sole factor. Lifestyle choices play a critical role, especially in Type 2 diabetes. Some of the key factors include:
- Diet: A diet high in processed foods, sugary beverages, and unhealthy fats can increase your risk of Type 2 diabetes.
- Physical Activity: Regular exercise helps to maintain a healthy weight, improve insulin sensitivity, and lower blood glucose levels.
- Obesity: Excess body fat, particularly around the abdomen, is a significant risk factor for Type 2 diabetes.
- Age: The risk of developing Type 2 diabetes increases with age, particularly after 45.
- Ethnicity: Some ethnic groups, including people of South Asian, African-Caribbean, and Aboriginal descent, have a higher risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.
How to Manage Your Risk
If you have a family history of diabetes, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing the condition:
- Adopt a Healthy Diet: Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit your intake of processed foods and sugary drinks.
- Stay Active: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week. Activities like walking, swimming, and cycling are excellent options.
- Maintain a Healthy Weight: Losing even a small amount of weight can significantly reduce your risk of Type 2 diabetes if you are overweight.
- Monitor Your Health: Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider can help you stay on top of your health and catch any early signs of diabetes.
Conclusion
While genetics can influence your risk of developing diabetes, they are just one piece of the puzzle. Lifestyle factors play a crucial role in determining whether or not you will develop the condition. By understanding your genetic risk and making healthy lifestyle choices, you can take control of your health and reduce your risk of developing diabetes. At Type Strong, we are committed to supporting individuals with diabetes through innovative products like our adhesive patches for continuous glucose monitors (CGMs).
Sources:
- Diabetes.co.uk. (n.d.). Diabetes and Genetics. Retrieved from https://www.diabetes.co.uk/diabetes-and-genetics.html#:~=Genetics%20play%20a%20strong%20role,people%20in%20the%20UK%20alone
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). (2023). Diabetes Overview. Retrieved from https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diabetes/overview/
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2023). About Type 2 Diabetes. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/about/about-type-2-diabetes.html
- Mayo Clinic. (2023). Type 2 diabetes: Symptoms and causes. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/type-2-diabetes/symptoms-causes/syc-20351193
- American Diabetes Association. (2023). Genetics of Diabetes. Retrieved from https://diabetes.org/about-diabetes/genetics-diabetes