Risk factors

Risk factors for type 2 diabetes include age over 40 years, family history and ethnicity. People with Asian, Black African, Black Caribbean and Chinese ethnicities are approximately two to four times more likely to develop type 2 diabetes compared to those with a White ethnic background. 

Being overweight or obese is also a risk factor, with the vulnerable ethnicities more likely to develop type 2 diabetes at lower weight thresholds. Socio-economic status (also referred to as social determinants of health) is also linked to increased risk of type 2 diabetes (e.g. low income and/or level of education could impact access to healthcare, healthy food and awareness of healthy eating).