Many people are walking around unaware that they have diabetes or are at a much greater risk than others. Some have been tested, and because their glucose levels are still within the normal range, feel that they are going to be OK. Still, if we continue to live in a manner that promotes this condition, symptoms may come upon us some day. That is why we are reporting a risk of this condition, even though someone may have tested negative.
People who have family members with diabetes (especially NIDDM), who are overweight, or who are African American, Hispanic, or Native American are all at greater risk of developing diabetes. IDDM occurs equally among males and females. NIDDM is more common in older people, especially older women who are overweight. Native Americans have the highest rates of diabetes in the world. Among Pima Indians living in the United States, for example, half of all adults have NIDDM. Interestingly, women who have given birth to a baby weighing more than 9 pounds are at increased risk, as are women who have had diabetes during pregnancy (gestational diabetes).