Diabetes

7. Who is at risk for developing type 2 diabetes?

Native Americans and Diabetes

Being over 45 years of age and overweight raises the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Other risk factors include

having a first degree relative--a parent, brother, or sister--with diabetes.
being African American, American Indian, Alaska Native, Asian American, Pacific Islander, or Hispanic American/Latino.
having gestational diabetes, or giving birth to at least one baby weighing more than 9 pounds.
having blood pressure of 140/90 or higher, or having been told that you have high blood pressure.
having abnormal cholesterol levels--an HDL cholesterol or good cholesterol level of 35 or lower, or a triglyceride level of 250 or higher.
being inactive or exercising fewer than three times a week.
having polycystic ovary syndrome, also called PCOS (women only).
having impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) or impaired fasting glucose (IFG).
history of cardiovascular disease.