Type 2 Diabetes: Genetics, Risk Factors & Family Trends

The American Diabetes Association says that type 2 diabetes has stronger genetic ties than type 1 diabetes. The disease itself is not inherited, but risk factors for developing it are.

Causes

• The leading cause of type 2 diabetes is obesity and lack of exercise. Since we often inherit lifestyle as well as genes from our parents, type 2 diabetes can cluster in families even if no genetics are involved.

Genetics

• A mutation in the beta3-adrenergic receptor gene called TRP64ARG has been identified as a cause of diabetes. This gene determines how fast the body burns fat while resting. People with the TRP64ARG mutation tend to be obese and commonly develop type 2 diabetes.

Ethnic Groups

• The TRP64ARG mutation is found approximately four times more in Pima Indians, and 1 1/2 times more in Mexicans and African Americans. All three ethnic groups have higher than normal rates of type 2 diabetes.

Genetic Testing

• Genetic testing for type 2 diabetes is not available because there are so many genes involved. A person could inherit one gene that places them at higher risk, but several others that place them at lower risk.

Prevention

• Families at high risk for type 2 diabetes should maintain healthy diets and exercise frequently. They should have their doctors perform a fasting glucose test or glucose tolerance test at least once every three years to see if they have developed the disease.