Understanding Diabetes: Key Risk Factors You Should Know

Diabetes is increasing globally, and understanding why it happens is an important step toward prevention and better health. At Medilik, we believe that knowledge is power — especially when it comes to your wellness journey. Below, we explore the risk factors for diabetes, what you can do about them, and how regular monitoring (like our Follow Me Up service) plays a key role.
 

According to the International Diabetes Federation, an estimated 11.1% of adults (ages 20-79) worldwide are living with diabetes. Since many cases remain undiagnosed, the true burden may be even higher. Early awareness and intervention are vital.
 

Risk factors for type 2 diabetes — the most common form — fall into two broad categories: non-modifiable (you can’t change) and modifiable (you can influence).

 
Non-modifiable risk factors
•    Family history: Having a parent or sibling with type 2 diabetes increases your risk. 
•    Age: The risk rises with age — many people are older when diagnosed. 
•    Ethnicity / race: Some populations are at higher risk.
•    History of gestational diabetes: If you had diabetes during pregnancy, your risk later increases. 

Modifiable risk factors: 
These are factors where lifestyle, environment or regular health checks can make a difference.
•    Overweight/obesity, especially abdominal fat: Excess weight, particularly around the waist, is one of the strongest risk factors. 
•    Physical inactivity / sedentary lifestyle: Sitting for long periods or low activity levels raise risk. 
•    Unhealthy diet: Diets high in processed foods, saturated fats, and refined carbohydrates increase risk
•    High blood pressure, dyslipidaemia (unhealthy cholesterol/triglycerides): These metabolic issues go hand‐in‐hand with diabetes risk. 
•    Waist size / central obesity: Even if weight is moderate, having more fat around the belly is especially risky. 
 

Because many risk factors accumulate gradually, diabetes often develops without noticeable symptoms until complications begin. That’s why monitoring and early action matter. If you have some of the factors above, it’s not about fear — it’s about empowerment.

•    Stay active: Aim for regular physical activity (e.g., brisk walking, cycling, swimming) to reduce risk.
•    Manage weight and waist size: Even modest weight loss or reducing waist circumference helps.
•    Adopt a balanced diet: Prioritise vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins; limit processed foods and saturated fats.
•    Regular check-ups: Get blood tests and consultations to monitor glucose, lipids, and other health markers.
•    Consider a structured monitoring program: A service like Medilik’s Follow Me Up can help you keep regular check-ins at home, making the process easy and consistent.

At Medilik, our suite of services including Follow Me Up (FMU) is designed to support your wellness journey. Whether you’re looking to prevent diabetes or simply keep your health on track, we provide:
•    Home sample collection and lab testing
•    Professional analysis and personalised consultations
•    Ongoing monitoring so you don’t wait until something goes wrong
•    Tailored lifestyle and wellness plans
By addressing risk factors early — before diagnosis or complications — you gain the confidence and tools to proactively manage your health.
 

Diabetes is not inevitable — many of its risk factors are modifiable, and with the right lifestyle and monitoring, you can significantly reduce your risk. But even if risk factors exist, it’s not too late. Taking small steps today can make a big difference tomorrow.
For more information, support, or to book a comprehensive monitoring service, visit our website: https://medilik.com