RISK FACTORS
Risk factors for diabetes depend on the type of disease.
Risk factors for type 1 diabetes:
- The presence of antibodies;
- Exposure to certain viral diseases;
- Decreased intake of vitamin D ;
- Giving cow’s milk at an early age.
Risk factors for type 2 diabetes:
- Obesity;
- Decreased physical activity;
- Diagnosed type 2 diabetes in a family member – parent, brother or sister;
- Gestational diabetes in previous pregnancies;
- Polycystic ovary syndrome ;
- High blood pressure;
- High levels of cholesterol;
- High levels of triglycerides.
Risk factors for gestational diabetes:
- Women older than 25 years;
- Diagnosed type 2 diabetes in a family member – parent, brother or sister;
- Gestational diabetes in previous pregnancies;
- Birth of baby with high body weight (more than 4kg);
- Stillborn for unknown reasons;
- Obesity;
- Large weight gain during pregnancy.
COMPLICATIONS
Complications of diabetes are developed gradually. The longer you have diabetes and the less control the blood sugar, the greater the risk of complications. Over time, the complications of diabetes can lead to loss of certain skills or be fatal. Possible complications include:
- Visual impairment;
- Common skin infections;
- Heart attack, stroke, impaired movement of blood in the legs;
- Nerve damage that occurs because of tingling, loss of feeling sensation, pain;
- Damage to the kidneys;
- Increased risk of certain cancers.
Fortunately, diabetes is easily diagnosed, and with proper education can be prevented and controlled.
