Which diabetes is hereditary?

Is diabetes hereditary?

The first thing to note is that, Yes, diabetes can be hereditary And, in the case of type 1 diabetes, this is much more common. There is a clear genetic predisposition for the child or close relative of a person with diabetes to develop the disease.

However, it should be noted that, depending on the time, the symptoms may appear earlier or later. In the diabetes 1 It usually manifests itself during the childhood , while in that of type 2 It is more common in the adulthood . Taking a genetic test at the right time can be very helpful in avoiding problems.

Another aspect to take into account is the type of genes and mutations that can influence the diabetes is hereditary . For example, insulin gene (INS), the HLA-DR3 and HLA-DR4 genes, the CTLA-4 gene, TCF7L2, PPARG, IRS1, ABCC8, and CAPN10 . Sometimes the mutation is in a single gene, while in other cases, it is in several. Therefore, it is very interesting to know in which cases it is a mutation and when it is not, because it will avoid uncertainty.

Likewise, we must remember that this disease is sometimes multifactorial. This means that, even if there are genetic mutations, we also cannot lose sight of other factors that, when combined, generate the problem. And it doesn't hurt to check this because it also allows for preventive action.

Therefore, it's good to know the genetic predisposition in each case. Let's see...

What other factors can lead to diabetes?

Although hereditary diabetes occurs in very high proportions, we must point out that there are Other factors that have a significant influence . And, even for people who suffer from it, knowing them is important for a good quality of life. Take a look, because this will interest you:

1. Insulin resistance

The first factor is the insulin resistance , and this does not have to be due to genetic reasons. Sometimes the organs do not use insulin correctly. insulin And the amount produced by the pancreas is insufficient for the body to function properly. This doesn't necessarily have to be due to genetic factors, and there are even gestational cases.

It should be noted that insulin resistance can manifest itself at different rates depending on the individual. Therefore, this issue must be considered in conjunction with others. Therefore, this must be taken into account.

2. Overweight

He s overweight is another risk factor for suffering from diabetes , especially of the Type 2 diabetes. Smoking and alcoholism don't help either. In these cases, excess fat and sugar can cause substantial fluctuations in blood sugar levels. Excess fat also increases insulin resistance. Therefore, it's a factor that should be considered as a possible cause.

The number of people with type 2 diabetes associated with being overweight is multiplying. And it's no coincidence: there's a good reason for this. Knowing this is good when making the decision to live a healthier life.

3. Lack of physical activity

The lack of physical activity This is another reason for developing diabetes. Consider that excess fat hinders the action of insulin and forces the pancreas to produce more. The practical effect? ​​A sedentary person is much more likely to suffer from it. type 2 diabetes .

Let's point out that this physical activity is relatively easy to replace. Running for an hour or brisk walking for two hours a day are interesting alternatives. Why give up a healthier lifestyle?

Hereditary predisposition to diabetes

Hereditary predisposition is not incompatible with having a healthy lifestyle and habits that reduce the risk and symptoms. And, beyond the need for medical treatment, it is good to know how the disease works. hereditary diabetes in each of the cases. The genetic panel test This will help you rule out this possibility or keep it in mind. Take a look:

1. Hereditary type 1 diabetes

The hereditary type 1 diabetes It has an approximate heritability percentage of 50% . However, it should be noted that it can manifest itself already during childhood (although it is more common in adolescence) and that it requires a medical treatment with frequent insulin doses.

What is the most common symptomatology of Hereditary type 1 diabetes ? These people often experience increased thirst and urination, rapid weight loss, and appetite problems. For this reason, it's important to check blood glucose levels frequently to prevent fainting.

Although type 1 diabetes has less heritability, it can be more dangerous because it manifests at an early age. Therefore, if you have a family history, it's especially important to get checked out.

2. Hereditary type 2 diabetes

The hereditary type 2 diabetes It usually manifests later than type 1. Symptoms usually begin to appear in adulthood. And, unlike type 1 diabetes, they progress slowly. However, the heritability factor is higher: up to 70% of the cases.

It's also worth mentioning that the variety of treatments is greater, and in some cases, pills and a good diet will be enough. However, the symptoms are also distinct: fatigue, blurred vision, unusual thirst, loss of appetite, weight loss, skin sores, numbness, or dizziness, among others.

As with other types of diabetes, this requires even more thorough monitoring. Remember that, in adulthood, it's common to have several concurrent conditions that require treatment.

In summary…

The hereditary diabetes It is in a high enough number of cases to be taken into account. Do you want to take any kind of preventive measure? In this case, you are very interested in doing a genetic panel test in advance. Genotics You'll find all the information on genetic tests available so you can make informed decisions. Contact us . if you want to know more!