Please verify your email address to receive email notifications.

Enter your email address

We have sent you a verification email. Please check your inbox and spam folder.

Unable to send verification, please refresh and try again later.

  • Q&A with Australian Health Practitioners

    Is type 2 diabetes genetic?

    Related Topics
    Endocrinology Type 2 Diabetes
    I am 15 years old and both my parents have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. What is the chance that I will also have diabetes? Is there anything I can do to prevent it?
    • 1 answer
    • Kate Marsh
    answer this question

  • Find a professional to answer your question

  • 1

    Thanks

    Kate Marsh

    Credentialled Diabetes Educator (CDE), Diabetes Educator, Dietitian

    Kate works with clients with type 1 and gestational diabetes, PCOS, and those following a plant-based (vegetarian or vegan) diet. As a diabetes educator, she … View Profile

    Yes type 2 diabetes is genetic so having both parents does put you at higher risk. But it doesn't mean that it is inevitable that you develop diabetes as lifestyle also plays a part.  Eating well, exercising regularly and maintaining a healthy weight can significantly reduce your risk.  Studies have shown that lifestyle modification programs which incorporate diet and exercise can reduce the risk of developing diabetes in those with pre-diabetes (who are at high risk) by around 60%.

    Reply to this post
     · 
    Report
answer this question

You must be a Health Professional to answer this question. Log in or Sign up .

You may also like these related questions

Related Fact Sheets
Related Questions

Empowering Australians to make better health choices