Diabetes risk in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people We don’t know exactly why some people get diabetes. But we know there are some things that can add to your risk of getting it. You have more chance of getting diabetes when you are an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person, but not all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have diabetes. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people live differently today to how they used to live. Changes that add to your chances of getting type 2 diabetes are: not being as physically active as before being more above a healthy weight range than before eating lots of fatty, salty and sugary foods. People living the old way were usually: physically active leaner and fitter. They also ate healthy food (bush tucker). Your chances of getting type 2 diabetes can also be higher: if it is in your family tree – someone in your family has diabetes if you had diabetes when you were pregnant as you get older. Some of these things (called risk factors) can be changed, while others cannot. Risk factors you cannot change There are some things you cannot change to reduce your risk of diabetes. These are: if it is in your family if you are Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander if you had gestational diabetes while pregnant getting older. Risk factors you can change The things you can do to lower your risk of diabetes: eat healthy foods keep to a healthy weight be active do not drink too much grog (alcohol). Talk to your doctor, clinic, nurse or health worker about having a test to find out if you have diabetes or pre-diabetes. You cannot always feel it or see it happening, so you might not know you have it. Diabetes yarning: all about diabetes Disclaimer The information here is meant to be helpful as a general guide. It’s not a substitute for medical advice, so be sure to talk to your health professional about your medical needs and questions.
