Although types 1 and 2 diabetes have many similarities, the cause of each is very different. There are, however, two factors that are key to both. Firstly, a predisposition to the disease is inherited and secondly, something in the environment triggers it. Most people with type 1 diabetes inherited risk factors from both parents and environmental triggers are thought to include cold temperatures, viruses and early childhood diet. Type 2 diabetes has a stronger connection to family history and genetics. Race can also play a role. Environmental factors include lifestyle as families often have similar eating and exercise habits.