Diabetes Awareness Month 2023: Role Of Genetics In The Development Of Diabetes

While lifestyle factors such as diet and physical activity are widely recognised as important determinants of diabetes risk, genetic factors also contribute significantly.

There are many health conditions known as hereditary because these can be transmitted from parents to their children. Diabetes is one of those illnesses that tend to run in families. Genetics plays a crucial role in the development of diabetes, a complex and pervasive health condition that affects millions of individuals worldwide. While lifestyle factors such as diet and physical activity are widely recognised as important determinants of diabetes risk, genetic factors also contribute significantly to an individual's susceptibility to the disease. Understanding the interplay between genetics and diabetes is essential for improving prevention, diagnosis, and treatment strategies.

 

Role Of Genetics In Type 1 And Type 2 Diabetes:

 

According to Dr. Bir Singh Sehrawat, who is the Director and HOD-Gastroenterology at Marengo Asia Hospitals, Faridabad, "As far as the role of genetics is concerned, the genetic mutations causing diabetes involve the proteins accountable for insulin production or the ability of the body to use insulin. However, these mutations cause the proteins to function inaccurately."

 

"Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the body's immune system destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. A few researches have shown that people with certain genetic markers are more prone to develop Type 1 diabetes. These genetic markers are often linked with the immune system and the regulation of immune responses. If someone has a close family member with type 1 diabetes, he/she is more susceptible to develop the disease," he added.

 

Talking about Type 2 diabetes, Dr. Bir Singh Sehrawat said, "Genetic variants can affect how your body processes glucose, insulin, and fats, making you more susceptible to insulin resistance and other metabolic issues central to Type 2 diabetes. People are more predisposed of developing type 2 diabetes if they have certain conditions such as having prediabetes, multiple gene mutations associated with type 2 diabetes, family history of diabetes, have been diagnosed with high blood pressure, age 45 years older, overweight, less physically active, had gestational diabetes (diabetes while pregnant), have given birth to a baby who weighed more than 9 pounds, have a low level of HDL, known as “good cholesterol”, have a high level of triglycerides, depression, history of heart disease or stroke and having have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)."

 

Role Of Genetics In The Development Of Gestational Diabetes:

 

Gestational diabetes develops during pregnancy, specifically affecting how the body handles glucose (sugar). Genetics can raise the risk of this condition. If a person has a family history of diabetes (particularly Type 2 diabetes), he/she is more likely to develop gestational diabetes. There are certain genetic factors that influence how the body processes glucose and insulin. These genetic factors can lead to the development of gestational diabetes. If someone has a personal history of gestational diabetes during a previous pregnancy, their risk of developing it again in subsequent pregnancies is high. Other factors like hormonal changes during pregnancy, weight gain, and lifestyle factors also play a significant role. Therefore it is advisable to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular physical activity as it can help lower the risk of developing gestational diabetes, even if you have a genetic predisposition. 

 

Importance Of Genetic Testing To Identify Increased Risk Of Diabetes:

 

Dr Gurazada Kalyan Chakravarthy, who is an Endocrinologist at Citizens Specialty Hospital, Hyderabad said, "Genetic testing has become increasingly important in identifying individuals at higher risk of diabetes. Understanding one's genetic predisposition can empower individuals to make informed decisions about their lifestyle choices and engage in preventive measures, such as maintaining a healthy weight and adopting a balanced diet."

The Future of Personalised Diabetes Care:

Dr. Divya Singh, who is a Senior Surgeon at Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital and Director, Maaiya Social Change Front Foundation said, "Advancements in genetic research have paved the way for personalised medicine in diabetes care. By identifying an individual's genetic risk factors, healthcare providers can offer tailored treatment plans and lifestyle recommendations to mitigate the risk of diabetes development and complications. Genetic testing is becoming more accessible, allowing individuals to gain insight into their genetic predisposition to diabetes. As our understanding of the genetic basis of diabetes continues to expand, personalized approaches to prevention and management are on the horizon, offering new hope in the fight against this widespread health challenge."

[Disclaimer: The information provided in the article, including treatment suggestions shared by doctors, is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.]