Type 2 Diabetes: Cause


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Cause


You can develop type 2 diabetes if:

  • Your body does not respond properly to insulin, making it difficult for your cells to get sugar from the blood to make energy. This is called insulin resistance.
  • Your pancreas does not make enough insulin.

Your weight, how much physical activity you get, and your family history all affect the way your body responds to insulin. If you are overweight, get little or no exercise, or have family members with diabetes, you have a greater chance of developing type 2 diabetes.

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Last updated: August 03, 2007
Author: Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Reviewed By: Caroline S. Rhoads, MD - Internal Medicine, Matthew I. Kim, MD - Endocrinology & Metabolism
Editors: Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. By using AOL Body, you indicate that you have read, understood, and agreed to our Terms of Service, and AOL Body Advertising Policy. Read more about our content partners.

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