The causes vary depending on the type.
Type 1 diabetes involves an autoimmune process influenced by genetic and environmental factors, although its exact triggers are not fully understood.
Type 2 diabetes develops through a combination of genetic, metabolic and lifestyle factors. Insulin resistance often develops gradually, sometimes years before blood sugar levels become noticeably elevated.
Risk factors for type 2 diabetes include:
- Family history of diabetes
- Increasing age
- Certain ethnic backgrounds
- Excess body fat, particularly around the abdomen
- Physical inactivity
- Previous gestational diabetes
- High blood pressure and abnormal cholesterol levels
- A history of prediabetes
Importantly, type 2 diabetes can develop in people of any body size, and not everyone with risk factors will develop the condition.
The Connection Between Blood Sugar and Chronic Inflammation
Chronic low-grade inflammation and insulin resistance are closely connected.
Inflammatory processes can interfere with insulin signalling, making it more difficult for cells to respond effectively to insulin. In turn, metabolic dysfunction and persistently elevated blood glucose can contribute to further inflammation.
Over time, poorly controlled diabetes can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, nerve damage and vision problems.
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