Both my parents have had diabetes for 16 years, and my elder sister has been diabetic for the past 3 years. What is my risk of developing diabetes, and what preventive measures can I take?
Since both your parents and your sister have diabetes, your risk of developing it is higher than average due to genetic factors, but it is not inevitable and can often be delayed or prevented with the right lifestyle. The most effective steps are maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet with controlled portions (more vegetables, whole grains, and protein, and less sugar and refined foods), exercising regularly (at least 30 minutes most days), and avoiding smoking and excess alcohol. It is also important to have regular health check-ups, including fasting blood sugar or HbA1c tests, so that any early changes can be detected and managed in time. Managing stress, getting good sleep, and keeping blood pressure and cholesterol under control also play a key role. With consistent healthy habits and regular monitoring, you can significantly reduce your chances of developing diabetes or delay its onset.