Quote:
Originally Posted by Salika
Is the only way (aside from genes) to get type II diabetes is not taking care of yourself, eating lots of sugary foods, etc?
I really wonder why those East African countries have a high expectancy though...
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Basically. Type 1 diabetes is now considered a post-viral autoimmune condition, having a strong association with Coxsackie B virus.
Type 2 diabetes has a much, much stronger genetic predisposition, but factors which maintain the blood sugar in a healthy range (ie, diet and exercise) help the body remain sensitive to insulin and also prevent 'fatigue" of the pancreas
Edit: the reason much of the developing world has such a high expected rate of increase is that many of those countries have been shielded from western diets rich in fat, refined sugars, and calories until relatively recently. Also, as technology spreads, people are becoming more sedentary.