What Are the Main Diabetes Causes?
The primary causes of Diabetes vary depending on the type of diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas, leading to a complete lack of insulin production. This type of diabetes is typically diagnosed in childhood or adolescence, and the exact cause is still not fully understood, although genetics and environmental factors, such as viral infections, may play a role. Type 2 diabetes, on the other hand, is primarily caused by a combination of genetic predisposition and lifestyle factors such as poor diet, lack of physical activity, and obesity. In Type 2 diabetes, the body either becomes resistant to insulin or does not produce enough insulin to maintain normal blood sugar levels.
Gestational diabetes is another form of diabetes that occurs during pregnancy, caused by the hormonal changes that affect insulin function. While the condition typically resolves after childbirth, women who have gestational diabetes are at an increased risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life. Other potential causes of diabetes include certain medical conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and the use of certain medications like corticosteroids can also increase the risk of developing diabetes.
