Most women with diabetes have type 2 diabetes, which is more common in older people. Women who develop diabetes during pregnancy, known as gestational diabetes, are at increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life. Diabetes can lead to blindness, kidney failure, nerve damage that can result in foot or leg amputation, heart disease and stroke. Special attention must be paid to this public health problem, particularly in women, Dr. Howard stressed. Type 2 diabetes is increasing in young people, especially among those who are overweight, physically inactive, or have a family history of diabetes.
Obesity is a major risk factor for diabetes.
Upper-body obesity is a stronger risk factor for type 2 diabetes than excess weight below the waist. Regular physical activity can protect against type 2 diabetes, while a lack of exercise is a risk factor for developing diabetes. Type 2 diabetes is a major risk factor for heart disease in women, she said. Even younger women with diabetes have an increased risk of heart disease. When women develop diabetes, they have more adverse changes that add to heart disease risk, Dr. Howard stated.