Diabetes is one of the most prevalent health conditions worldwide and type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes. Type 2 diabetes accounts for about 90% of all diabetes cases.

According to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), there were 463 million people living with diabetes in 2019 and the numbers are expected to rise to 700 million by 2045.

What is Type 2 Diabetes?

Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition that affects the way your body processes blood sugar (glucose).

Glucose is the primary source of fuel for the body and insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that helps glucose get into your cells to be used as energy. However, in type 2 diabetes, the body is either not able to produce enough insulin or cannot use insulin effectively, which leads to a buildup of glucose in the blood.

Type 2 diabetes can develop at any age, but it most commonly affects people over the age of 40 and those who are overweight or obese. It is also more prevalent in people of South Asian, African, and Middle Eastern descent.

The Link Between Type 2 Diabetes and Women

Studies have shown that women are at a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes than men. In fact, women are nearly twice as likely to develop type 2 diabetes compared to men.

The reasons for this gender disparity are not completely understood, but there are several factors that may play a role.

Hormonal Factors

One of the possible reasons why women are more prone to type 2 diabetes is because of hormonal factors. Hormonal changes during pregnancy, menopause, and menstrual cycles can affect blood sugar levels and increase insulin resistance.

For instance, during pregnancy, the placenta produces hormones that make cells more resistant to insulin. In most cases, the pancreas can produce enough extra insulin to overcome this resistance, but in some women, the blood sugar levels may stay high, leading to gestational diabetes.

Women who develop gestational diabetes are at higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.

Lifestyle Factors

Lifestyle factors also play a major role in the development of type 2 diabetes. Obesity, physical inactivity, and an unhealthy diet are some of the contributory factors.

Women who have a sedentary lifestyle, consume a diet high in sugar and fat, and have a high body mass index (BMI) are at a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

PCOS is a hormonal disorder that affects women of reproductive age and is characterized by irregular periods, high levels of androgen (male hormone), and polycystic ovaries.

Women with PCOS have an increased risk of developing insulin resistance, which can lead to type 2 diabetes. In fact, studies have shown that up to 70% of women with PCOS develop insulin resistance, and up to 10% of them may develop diabetes before the age of 40.

Other Risk Factors

Other risk factors for type 2 diabetes include a family history of the condition, high blood pressure, and age. Women who have a parent or sibling with type 2 diabetes are at a higher risk of developing the condition themselves.

High blood pressure also increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. As women age, their risk of developing type 2 diabetes increases, especially after menopause.

Symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes in Women

The symptoms of type 2 diabetes in women are similar to those in men and can include:.

Frequent urination
Increased thirst
Increase in appetite
Unexplained weight loss
Fatigue
Blurred vision
Slow-healing wounds
Frequent infections

Preventing Type 2 Diabetes in Women

While some risk factors for type 2 diabetes, such as family history and age, cannot be changed, there are many lifestyle changes that women can make to reduce their risk of developing the condition.

Eat a healthy diet that is high in fiber, low in fat, and low in sugar
Avoid sugary drinks and processed foods
Maintain a healthy weight
Exercise regularly
Stop smoking
Reduce stress

Women with PCOS can also take medications or hormonal therapy to help manage their condition and reduce the risk of developing insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.

Conclusion

Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition that affects millions of people worldwide.

Women are at a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes compared to men, and there are several factors that contribute to this gender disparity, including hormonal factors and lifestyle factors. By making healthy lifestyle choices and managing underlying health conditions, women can reduce their risk of developing type 2 diabetes and lead a healthier life.