Type 2 Diabetes: Understanding Your Risk

Type 2 diabetes is a common condition, and it often develops slowly over years. Many people have it, or are on their way to it, without knowing. Learning about your risk is a helpful first step, and there are things people can do that may lower their chances.

What is type 2 diabetes?

When you eat, your body breaks down much of your food into sugar (glucose), which goes into your blood. A hormone called insulin helps move that sugar into your cells for energy.

In type 2 diabetes, the body does not use insulin well or does not make enough of it. Over time, sugar builds up in the blood. High blood sugar over a long time can damage the heart, blood vessels, kidneys, eyes, nerves, and feet.

Type 2 diabetes is different from type 1 diabetes, which is caused by the body's immune system and cannot currently be prevented.

What is prediabetes?

Prediabetes means blood sugar levels are higher than normal, but not high enough to be diagnosed as diabetes. Many people with prediabetes do not know they have it.

Prediabetes is an important signal. For many people, healthy changes made during this stage can help delay or prevent type 2 diabetes.

What raises the risk?

You may be at higher risk if you:

• Have prediabetes
• Have overweight or obesity
• Are older (risk goes up with age, though younger people and children can also develop type 2 diabetes)
• Have a parent, brother, or sister with type 2 diabetes
• Are physically active less than a few times a week
• Have had diabetes during pregnancy (gestational diabetes)
• Have high blood pressure or other heart health risks
• Are African American, Hispanic/Latino, American Indian, Alaska Native, or some Pacific Islander or Asian American groups

Having a risk factor does not mean you will get diabetes. It means it is worth paying attention and talking with a healthcare professional.

Possible signs

Many people have no symptoms at first. When symptoms happen, they may include:

• Being very thirsty
• Urinating often
• Feeling very tired
• Blurry vision
• Cuts or sores that heal slowly
• Losing weight without trying

If you notice these, contact a healthcare professional. Only a blood test can tell if you have diabetes or prediabetes.

Getting tested

A simple blood test can check your blood sugar. Ask your healthcare professional whether you should be tested and how often, based on your age and risk factors. Community health centers and many clinics can do this test.

Everyday steps that may help lower risk

These are general healthy habits. Talk with your healthcare professional about what fits your health and life.

Eat well

• Fill more of your plate with vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean proteins.
• Choose water instead of sugary drinks more often.
• Pay attention to portion sizes.

Move more

• Find activities you enjoy, such as walking, yard work, or dancing.
• Short bouts of activity during the day can add up.
• Ask your healthcare professional what kind of activity is safe for you.

Other habits

• Get enough sleep.
• Avoid tobacco.
• Find healthy ways to manage stress.

Look into a lifestyle change program

The National Diabetes Prevention Program, led by CDC, offers structured lifestyle change programs for people with prediabetes or at risk for type 2 diabetes. Some programs are offered in person and some online, which can help if you live far from where programs are held. Ask your healthcare professional or visit CDC's diabetes website to learn more.

When to talk with a healthcare professional

• If you have one or more risk factors and have not been tested
• If you have been told you have prediabetes and want to know your next steps
• If you notice possible symptoms of diabetes

This page is for general education and does not replace advice from a healthcare professional.