Diabetes
Diabetes is caused by a variety of genetic and environmental factors. The most common forms (Type 1 and Type 2) are thought to be due to a variety of genetic and environmental risk factors, while MODY is associated with specific gene mutations.
Diabetes Type I
Type 1 diabetes develops when the body is not able to produce enough insulin. Insulin is a chemical that allows our bodies to turn the sugar and starch we eat into energy. Type 1 diabetes makes up only 5-10% of all diabetes cases.
Diabetes Type II
In Type 2 diabetes, the body produces insulin, but doesn’t use it properly. Type 2 diabetes occurs more commonly in adults but can sometimes be diagnosed in children and young adults as well. The risk of Type 2 diabetes can be reduced by proper diet and exercise as well as certain medications.
MODY
Maturity Onset Diabetes of the Young (MODY) is the cause of 1-5% of diabetes cases and is due to a genetic mutation. MODY is often misclassified as either Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes.
Symptoms
- Excessive thirst
- Frequent urination
- Increased appetite
- Unexplained weight loss
- Tiredness
- Blurred vision
Causes/Risk Factors
- Family history of diabetes
- Being overweight
- Lack of exercise
- Black, Hispanic and American Indian ethnicities
- Older age
Genetic Test
The following genetic tests may be appropriate based on your personal and/or family history:
- MODY1
- MODY2
- MODY3
- MODY4
- MODY5
- Genetic Variants for Diabetes
Schedule an Appointment
To speak with a board-certified genetic counselor about your risks for this disease:
Learn more about
scheduling.
Learn More
National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Centers for Disease Control (CDC)
American Diabetes Association:
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