### Understanding Type 2 Diabetes and How to Prevent It Type 2 diabetes is a complex condition influenced by various factors, including genetics, diet, and lifestyle habits. According to the American Diabetes Association (ADA), over 37 million Americans were living with diabetes in 2019, and many more have prediabetes, where blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not high enough to be classified as diabetes. #### Risk Factors While unhealthy eating habits and being overweight can increase your risk, the cause of type 2 diabetes is more complex. Genetics play a significant role, but daily habits are crucial too. Even without a genetic predisposition, poor diet, weight management, and self-care can lead to diabetes. Factors that increase your risk include: - Unhealthy diet - Lack of physical activity - Being overweight or obese - Family history of diabetes - Certain racial or ethnic backgrounds - Socioeconomic factors that limit access to healthy foods #### Prevention Research shows that more than 90% of type 2 diabetes cases are potentially preventable. Key preventive measures include: - Following a healthy diet - Maintaining a BMI of 25 or lower - Exercising at least 30 minutes a day - Avoiding smoking - Limiting alcohol consumption Studies have found that these lifestyle practices can lower the incidence of type 2 diabetes by 57%, especially for those who sustain a weight loss of 5% or greater for two or three years. #### Conclusion Staying in contact with your physician and educating yourself about diabetes are also important steps. The more you know, the more control you have over your health.