What Causes Diabetes

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​What causes diabetes?

No one is sure what causes diabetes but research has shown that the risk of diabetes may be higher for some people. Risk factors include:

  • Family history of diabetes
  • Overweight
  • Inactivity
  • Over age 45
  • African American, Asian, Hispanic, Native American or Pacific Islander heritage
  • High blood pressure or high cholesterol
  • Diseases that damage the pancreas
  • A history of gestational diabetes or having a baby weighing over 9 pounds
  • Exposure to certain viruses that damage the pancreas