Basic Information on Other Forms of Diabetes

There are other forms of diabetes other than type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes that only pregnant women get. If not treated, it can cause problems for mothers and babies. Gestational diabetes develops in 2% to 5% of all pregnancies but usually disappears when a pregnancy is over. Other specific types of diabetes resulting from specific genetic syndromes, surgery, drugs, malnutrition, infections, and other illnesses may account for 1% to 2% of all diagnosed cases of diabetes. 

Risk Factors for Gestational Diabetes and Other Forms
Gestational diabetes occurs more frequently in African Americans, Hispanic/Latino Americans, American Indians, and people with a family history of diabetes than in other groups. Obesity is also associated with higher risk. Women who have had gestational diabetes are at increased risk for later developing type 2 diabetes. In some studies, nearly 40% of women with a history of gestational diabetes developed diabetes in the future.

Other types of diabetes, which may account for 1% to 2% of all diagnosed cases, result from specific genetic syndromes, surgery, drugs, malnutrition, infections, and other illnesses.

It is important to understand the potential risk factors and treatments available for diabetes in order to prevent negative reactions that are avoidable. People with diabetes must take responsibility for their day-to-day care, and keep blood glucose levels from going too low or too high.

> Return to Diabetes Reference Section
> Return to Health Main Reference Category
> Return to NEWSdial.com