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Will You Get Type 2 Diabetes? New Research Will Help Answer This Question

Type 2 diabetes results in high levels of glucose in the blood. Unlike Type 1 diabetes which is an autoimmune disorder, Type 2 diabetes is caused by a mixture of diet, lifestyle and genetics. Identifying those at greatest risk of diabetes allows them to reduce their risk of this chronic illness.

Israeli scientists at Hebrew University recently reported of finding molecular risk factors that provide an early warning sign of Type 2 diabetes. The tests identified epigenetic factors that are carried by those at high risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.

Called T2D, this methylation signature has been found in individuals with Type 2 diabetes as well as those with pre-diabetes.

This type of testing would be similar to the C-reactive protein test used to diagnose inflammation in the arteries that can be a precursor to a heart attack. The T2D test could allow those who have not yet begun to lose their ability to respond to insulin to be identified.

Susceptible individuals could then be assisted in adjusting their diet, weight and exercise levels to reduce the risk of the disease.