Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition characterized by elevated levels of glucose (sugar) in the blood due to the body's inability to produce enough insulin to regulate the amount of glucose in the blood.
The exact cause of type 2 diabetes is not known, but there are several factors that can increase a person's risk for developing the condition. These include obesity, family history, and physical inactivity.
Obesity is a major risk factor for type 2 diabetes. This is because excess body fat can make it more difficult for the body to produce enough insulin to effectively regulate glucose levels. In addition, people who are overweight are more likely to have other health problems such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol, which can also increase the risk for type 2 diabetes.
Family history is another risk factor for type 2 diabetes. If a person’s blood relatives have the condition, they are more likely to develop it as well.
Physical inactivity is yet another risk factor for type 2 diabetes. Regular physical activity helps to regulate glucose levels and can reduce the risk for developing the condition.
Finally, certain ethnic groups are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes. This includes people of African, Hispanic, and Native American descent.
In summary, the exact cause of type 2 diabetes is not known, but there are several factors that can increase a person's risk for developing the condition. These include obesity, family history, physical inactivity, and certain ethnic backgrounds.