2.5 Outline contributing risk factors that may lead to the development of Type 2 diabetes

This guide will help you answer 2.5 Outline contributing risk factors that may lead to the development of Type 2 diabetes.

Type 2 diabetes is a lifelong condition that affects how the body controls blood sugar levels. It develops when the body becomes resistant to insulin or when the pancreas cannot produce enough insulin. Insulin is a hormone that helps move sugar from the blood into the cells for energy. Over time, high blood sugar can damage blood vessels, nerves, and organs.

The risk of developing Type 2 diabetes is linked to several contributing factors. Some are linked to lifestyle, while others relate to genetics and health background. Understanding these factors helps workers in health and social care give accurate advice and recognise people at higher risk.

Age

The risk of Type 2 diabetes increases with age. This is often because older adults may gain weight more easily, exercise less, and have changes in body composition. Over time, the body may become less responsive to insulin.

People aged over 40 are at greater risk than those in younger age groups. The risk is even higher in certain ethnic backgrounds from age 25 onwards.

Family History

Having a close relative with Type 2 diabetes increases a person’s risk. This could be a parent, brother, sister, or child. The risk comes partly from inherited genes, but shared lifestyle habits in families also play a role. For example, eating patterns, physical activity levels, and attitudes to health can be similar across generations.

Ethnic Background

Some ethnic groups have a higher risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. In the UK, people of South Asian, African-Caribbean, and Middle Eastern origin are more likely to develop it and may do so at a younger age. This may be related to genetic factors and differences in how the body stores fat and responds to insulin.

Weight and Obesity

Excess body weight is one of the strongest risk factors for Type 2 diabetes. Fat stored around the waist is particularly linked to insulin resistance. This is sometimes measured by waist circumference rather than body mass index alone.

Carrying too much weight makes it harder for the body to use insulin well. Fat cells release substances that reduce insulin sensitivity. Over time, this strains the pancreas and leads to higher blood sugar levels.

Physical Inactivity

People who are not active are more likely to develop Type 2 diabetes. Regular physical activity helps muscles use glucose for energy, which lowers blood sugar levels. It also improves insulin sensitivity.

Sedentary lifestyles mean the body uses less glucose, leaving more in the bloodstream. This long-term effect increases diabetes risk.

Unhealthy Diet

Diets high in processed foods, sugary drinks, saturated fats, and refined carbohydrates can raise the risk of Type 2 diabetes. These foods can lead to sudden spikes in blood sugar and contribute to weight gain.

A diet lacking in whole grains, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats can reduce the body’s ability to keep blood sugar stable. Workers need to be able to support healthier eating habits for those at risk.

Blood Pressure and Cholesterol Levels

High blood pressure often occurs with insulin resistance. This increases strain on the heart and circulatory system. People with high blood pressure are more likely to develop Type 2 diabetes.

Abnormal cholesterol levels, such as high triglycerides and low HDL (good cholesterol), are also linked to insulin resistance. This combination is known as metabolic syndrome and greatly increases the risk.

Gestational Diabetes

Women who develop diabetes during pregnancy have a higher chance of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life. This is because gestational diabetes signals that the body already has reduced insulin sensitivity.

The risk remains even if blood sugar levels return to normal after the baby is born. Regular checks are important for these women.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

PCOS is a hormone condition that affects how the ovaries work. Women with PCOS often have insulin resistance, weight gain, and irregular menstrual cycles. This makes them more likely to develop Type 2 diabetes.

Healthcare workers should be aware of this link when supporting individuals with PCOS.

Sleep Patterns

Poor quality sleep and not getting enough sleep are linked to higher risk of Type 2 diabetes. Interrupted sleep affects hormone balance, appetite control, and insulin sensitivity.

Sleep disorders like sleep apnoea can contribute to fatigue and increase insulin resistance.

Smoking

Smoking increases the likelihood of insulin resistance and inflammation. Smokers have higher rates of Type 2 diabetes compared to non-smokers. Smoking also worsens complications in those already diagnosed.

Alcohol Use

Regular heavy drinking can lead to weight gain, liver damage, and poor blood sugar control. Alcohol adds extra calories, often leads to poor food choices, and affects how the liver regulates glucose.

Long-Term Stress

Ongoing stress can raise blood sugar through hormone changes. The body releases cortisol and adrenaline during stress, which affects insulin use. Stress can also lead to less healthy eating, less exercise, or more smoking and drinking.

Certain Medications

Some medicines can increase risk by affecting how the body uses insulin. These may include steroids taken for long periods, certain antipsychotics, or drugs that treat HIV.

Healthcare workers should check risk levels when people are on long-term medication.

Socioeconomic Factors

Lower income and education levels can limit access to healthy food and safe spaces for exercise. It can also increase stress and reduce access to preventative healthcare. These factors create environments where diabetes risk is higher.

Past Medical History

Previous health issues such as heart disease, stroke, or impaired glucose tolerance point towards insulin resistance. People with these conditions are at greater risk and should be monitored.

Early Warning Signs and Prevention

Knowing the risk factors allows early testing and lifestyle changes before Type 2 diabetes develops. Common early signs include frequent urination, thirst, tiredness, blurred vision, and slow healing cuts or wounds. Workers can encourage individuals to have regular health checks and blood tests if they are at higher risk.

Prevention work focuses on:

• Eating a balanced diet
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Being physically active most days
• Reducing alcohol and stopping smoking
• Managing blood pressure and cholesterol
• Getting regular sleep

Final Thoughts

Type 2 diabetes develops over many years. Lifestyle and health history combine to shape a person’s risk. Some risk factors cannot be changed, such as age or family history. Others, like diet, weight, and physical activity, can be addressed through support and informed choices.

As a health and social care worker, recognising these risks means you can help people act early. Small changes in eating, exercise, and daily habits can make a big difference in reducing chances of developing the condition. A clear understanding of the causes allows you to offer guidance that is practical and specific for each person’s situation.