Diabetes is known to be a hereditary condition, meaning that it runs in families.

Type 1 diabetes begins in childhood and is relatively common; nearly 1 child in 400 develops the condition.

Type 2 diabetes is more likely to occur in adults who are overweight. Excess body fat prevents insulin from working properly.

Hypertension;

Smoking;

Lack of exercise;

Obesity; and

A diet that is high in saturated fat.