Carrying too many additional pounds is a top risk factor for type 2 diabetes. The Body Mass Index (BMI) is the accepted measure for ascertaining body weight in relation to the general health for most individuals (pregnant women, athletes, body builders excluded) in the 20 to 65 age group. A BMI exceeding 27 typically means a risk for type 2 diabetes.

An apple-shaped figure, or having too much fat above the hips, usually more of a risk factor for type 2 diabetes than for those with a pear-shaped figure, those with excess fat in the thighs and hips. Waist measurements of larger than 39.5 in. (men), and 37.5 in. (women) are thought to be at a higher risk level.

Age: The risk of type 2 diabetes increases with age. Those over 45 are at a greater risk than their younger counterparts and those over 65 are three times as high as people in the 35 to 64 age group.

Sedentary lifestyle: Exercising regularly and keeping your weight under control reduces your chances for getting type 2 diabetes. Those who have the disease should see an improvement in blood sugar levels as well.

If a parent or sibling has type 2 diabetes you are at risk too. While the cause of diabetes continues to be a mystery, genetics appears to play a key role. In 2003, researchers found a key gene that could explain why some are more susceptible to the disease than others. Although type 2 diabetes is linked with a strong genetic predisposition, the genetics of this type of diabetes are complex and not yet clear.

Nearly four out of every ten women who have diabetes during pregnancy will eventually develop type 2. This usually happens within 10 years of giving birth.

Having impaired glucose tolerance is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes. This can occur prior to the development of type 2 . While people with this risk factor alone are not considered to have the disease, the resulting abnormal blood sugar levels puts them at increased danger for type 2 and also cardiovascular disease. As we get older our glucose tolerance decreases, along with our chances for getting type 2 diabetes and hyperglycemia.

Those who have Asian, Latin American, African or Aboriginal ancestry are at a higher risk of having type 2 diabetes.

You may have a health risk factor for type 2 diabetes if you have high blood pressure. It’s well known that high blood pressure is associated with diabetes. High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a medical condition wherein the blood pressure is chronically elevated. High blood pressure can also create problems for other organs, such as damage to the kidneys.

High Cholesterol and type 2 diabetes go hand in hand. Preventing and controlling diabetes goes beyond blood sugar control. Cholesterol levels should be managed with diet, exercise and the proper medications.

It’s wise to know the type 2 diabetes risk factors and John Richmond, a frequent contributor to YourDiabetesInfo.com and diabetes researcher has other interesting articles there as well.