Dr. Dheeraj Kapoor explains in detail the role of genetics or lifestyle in the growing cases of early-onset diabetes in the world.
VERIFIED By: Dr. Dheeraj Kapoor, Chief – Endocrinology, Artemis Hospitals
Written by Kinkini Gupta |Published : November 13, 2024 7:38 PM IST
The worldwide rising cases of early-onset diabetes are an alarming problem. Diabetes was once confined to elderly populations, but it is being increasingly diagnosed among younger age groups. This trend leads one to some important questions: Are lifestyle or genetic factors playing a role in this shift? Dr. Dheeraj Kapoor, Chief – Endocrinology, Artemis Hospitals explains in detail the role of genetics or lifestyle in the growing cases of early-onset diabetes in the world.
Genetics and Early-Onset Diabetes
Genetics certainly plays a prominent role in the development of diabetes, particularly Type 2 diabetes. Family history is one of the major determinants if either parent or both parents have diabetes, the child is more likely to do so. Scientific research has identified distinct genetic markers for both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. But genetics alone cannot explain why early-onset cases have gone up sharply over the past few decades. Type 2 Diabetes is also cases, more commonly associated with lifestyle factors.
The Role of Lifestyle
Lifestyle factors, including poor diet and less physical activity, have been major contributors to the rapid increase of type 2 diabetes in younger age groups. Modern life, marked by excessive screen time, a poor diet, and a sedentary lifestyle, is the fueling aspect behind growing diabetes. Obesity, stress, and poor sleep patterns help compound the situation more, since hormonal imbalances culminate in insulin resistance, thereby resulting in early-onset diabetes.
The Interplay Between Genetics and Lifestyle
While genetics could predispose someone to diabetes, more often it is the lifestyle choices that play the trigger. For instance, if one has a family history of diabetes, chances are that he or she is likely to have the disease at an earlier stage if they lead unhealthy lifestyles; for example, inappropriate diets, a sedentary lifestyle and chronic stress. Healthy lifestyle patterns may delay or even prevent diabetes in people who are genetically predisposed.
Prevention and Management
Prevention strategies must look into both the genetic and lifestyle aspects of the disease. Regular exercise, a healthy diet with more whole grains, vegetables and lean proteins along with enough sleep and stress management can go a long way in preventing this early-onset diabetes. Early detection, especially when there is a family history of diabetes, will also become an aid for management or the prevention of this disease.
In short, while genetics does play a foundational role, it is the modern lifestyle that largely drives the increase in early-onset diabetes. Lifestyle factors are key to reversing the alarming trend of increasing early-onset diabetes.
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