Is Diabetes Hereditary?

Diabetes has become a major health concern in India. According to the World Health Organization, over 77 million people in India above 18 of age have diabetes.  

Diabetes is a chronic condition where the body cannot properly regulate blood sugar levels. This happens either because the pancreas cannot produce sufficient insulin or the body cannot effectively utilise the insulin it makes. Insulin, a hormone released by the pancreas, monitors blood sugar.  

Diabetes tends to run in families, but genetics alone do not determine one’s risk. Important questions remain about how much genetics influence each type of diabetes. For instance, is diabetes genetic? Is type 2 diabetes hereditary? This blog post answers these questions.  

Is type 1 diabetes genetic? 

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition that causes one’s immune system to compromise the efficiency of the insulin-producing beta cells. These cells are found in the pancreas. Research has identified several genes involved in immune function that increase the risk of developing type 1 diabetes. These genes may contribute to the autoimmune response against insulin-producing cells. 

Studies show that the presence of a family history of type 1 diabetes puts people at a higher risk of developing the disease, indicating a clear genetic component. For example: 

1. Siblings of someone with type 1 diabetes have a 6-7% lifetime risk of developing it. 
2. If the mother has type 1 diabetes, her children have a 1.3-4% risk. 
3. If the father has type 1 diabetes, his children have a 6-9% risk. 
4. Identical twins have over a 70% risk of both developing type 1 diabetes. 

Is type 2 diabetes genetic? 

The American Diabetes Association finds that, as against type 1, type 2 diabetes has a stronger link to lineage and family history. Some of the identified gene variants include: 

1. ABCC8 – may affect insulin release
2. GCGR – a glucagon receptor gene
3. CAPN10 – encodes enzymes that break down proteins
4. TCF7L2 – has a strong link to type 2 diabetes across racial groups

The genetic risk for type 2 diabetes includes: 

1. 40% lifetime risk with one parent who has type 2 diabetes 
2. 70% lifetime risk if both parents have type 2 diabetes 
3. 3X higher risk if a first-degree relative has type 2 diabetes 

So, while genetics influence the risk, lifestyle choices and environmental factors also significantly determine type 2 diabetes risk. Factors like diet, exercise, weight, and stress levels can all reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. 

Is gestational diabetes genetic? 

Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes that can develop during pregnancy in women who did not previously have diabetes. It usually occurs during the second trimester of pregnancy, when the body cannot produce enough insulin to regulate blood sugar levels. This condition results from genetic, health, and lifestyle factors. 

Although it is unclear if gestational diabetes is inherent, many women who develop gestational diabetes have at least one close family member with this type of diabetes or other forms of diabetes (most commonly type 2). 

How to prevent diabetes? 

Age, genes, and family medical history are beyond one’s control. However, there are certain changes that a person can make in their lives to prevent diabetes. 

1. Losing weight – Losing weight, if above a healthy range, can reduce the possibility of developing diabetes.

2. Daily exercise: Exercising daily can decrease the chances as well. Brisk walking for at least 30 minutes five days a week can reduce the risk of having diabetes.

3. Limit alcohol: Consuming alcohol can add kilos, increase blood pressure and triglyceride levels, and lower HDL (good cholesterol). So, limiting alcohol intake is advisable.

4. Follow a healthy diet: Opt for whole grains over highly processed carbohydrates and refined grains. Choose beans, nuts, and poultry over red meat. Also, skip sugary drinks and instead choose coffee, tea, or water.

To answer the question, “Is diabetes genetic?” in a nutshell, the answer is yes; there is a genetic component to diabetes. Individuals with a family history of diabetes, as previously discussed, are at a higher risk of developing the disease themselves. However, it’s important to remember that genetics alone do not determine the onset of diabetes. Lifestyle factors, like physical activity, diet and overall health, also play a significant role. 

The best way to manage diabetes is to detect it as soon as possible. If someone is experiencing symptoms of diabetes, they must consult their doctor and undergo a diabetes test. To book a diabetes test and screening, visit the Dr Lal Pathlabs website. 

FAQs 

1. Is diabetes hereditary from the mother or father?

The risk of developing diabetes is slightly higher if the mother has it rather than the father. If both parents have diabetes, the risk is even higher. 

2. Can someone get diabetes without a family history?

Diabetes and genetics are linked, but genes are only one of the many factors. Even if no one in one’s family has diabetes, one can still develop diabetes.

3. Is diabetes 100% hereditary?

No. Other factors, including weight and eating habits, also influence diabetes.