Risk Factors & Prevention

Prediabetes & Type 2

The risk factors for prediabetes and type 2 diabetes are the same. You could be at risk for developing prediabetes or type 2 diabetes if you:

• are overweight;
• are 45 years or older;
• have a parent or sibling with type 2 diabetes;
• are physically active less than three (3) times per week; 
• have ever had gestational diabetes or given birth to a baby who weighed 9 pounds or more; or
• are African American, Hispanic/Latino American, American Indian or Alaska Native (some Pacific Islanders and Asian Americans are also at higher risk).

You may be able to prevent, reverse prediabetes or delay type 2 diabetes by making simple, proven lifestyle changes, such as:

• Losing weight if you are overweight
• Eating healthier
• Getting regular physical activity

Type 1 Diabetes

Risk factors for type 1 diabetes are different than those for prediabetes and type 2. Type 1 diabetes is thought to be caused by an immune reaction. Known risk factors include:

• Family history:  having a parent or sibling with type 1 diabetes
• Age:  a type 1 diabetes diagnosis can occur at any age but is more likely to develop as a child, teen or young adult.

There are currently no proven ways to prevent type 1 diabetes.