The Growing Risk of Type 2 Diabetes in Women: What You Need to Know

Type 2 diabetes is rising at an unprecedented rate worldwide, and women are increasingly affected.

Studies indicate that certain lifestyle factors, hormonal changes, and sociocultural dynamics are making women more susceptible to this condition than ever before. Women face unique health risks, such as gestational diabetes and hormonal fluctuations, that influence blood sugar regulation, while growing urbanization, dietary shifts, and physical inactivity amplify the trend. 

Research points to several underlying reasons for the increase in Type 2 diabetes in women. For example, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that rates of gestational diabetes have nearly doubled over the past 20 years, which raises the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life. Other studies highlight that conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome, menopause, and even chronic stress contribute to insulin resistance, further heightening risk among women. 

 

Why is the prevalence of type II diabetes among women increasing so rapidly?  

1. Lifestyle Changes: Sedentary lifestyles, processed diets high in sugars and fats, and stress all contribute to diabetes risk. Women, especially those balancing multiple roles, may face higher levels of stress and limited time for exercise or self-care, increasing susceptibility. 

2. Hormonal and Biological Factors: Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and menopause can affect insulin sensitivity and blood sugar regulation, heightening the risk of diabetes. 

3. Gestational Diabetes: Women who develop diabetes during pregnancy (gestational diabetes) are at a higher risk of Type 2 diabetes later in life. With rising rates of obesity and older maternal age, gestational diabetes has become more common. 

4. Urbanization and Access to Health Information: Urban living can lead to less physical activity and more processed food consumption. Additionally, awareness and access to preventive healthcare vary, affecting early detection and lifestyle adjustments that could mitigate risk. 

5. Socioeconomic and Cultural Factors: Socioeconomic status, cultural perceptions of health, and access to healthcare can influence women's awareness and management of diabetes risk. Women in lower-income brackets may have less access to nutritious food and preventive care. 

How can you reduce your risk of developing type II diabetes? 

Here are five key strategies that can help: 

• Regular physical activity: Physical activity is one of the most effective ways to improve insulin sensitivity. Incorporating aerobic exercises, strength training, or even daily walks can help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce diabetes risk. 

• Balanced nutrition: A diet focused on whole grains, plant proteins, healthy fats, and low-glycemic carbohydrates can stabilize blood sugar levels. Avoiding processed foods and sugary drinks helps reduce the risk of insulin resistance. 

• Stress management: Chronic stress can lead to prolonged high blood sugar levels, affecting insulin sensitivity. Techniques such as mindfulness, yoga, and meditation can help manage stress and improve overall well-being. 

• Regular health screenings: Annual screenings can help detect prediabetes early, especially for women with risk factors such as a family history of diabetes or previous gestational diabetes. 

• Hormonal health awareness: Managing hormonal conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome and understanding the metabolic changes during menopause can empower women to make informed choices that reduce diabetes risk. 

Taking control of your health is an empowering journey, and reducing the risk of Type 2 diabetes is a crucial part of that path. By making mindful lifestyle changes—such as staying active, eating balanced meals, managing stress, and keeping up with health screenings—women can not only protect themselves against diabetes but also enhance their overall well-being. Understanding and addressing the unique health risks women face allows for a more resilient approach to long-term wellness.  

360Girls&Women is committed to supporting you in every step of this journey, providing resources and guidance to help you make informed choices and take charge of your health at every stage of life. Book a call to learn more about our preventative treatments and find tools that make wellness accessible and achievable for all. Let’s work together to build a healthier future. 

 

Blog Medically reviewed by Sue-Ellen Anderson-Haynes, MS, RDN, CDCES, LDN, NASM-CPT, Women's Health Dietitian, Wellness Practitioner, Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist, Women's Fitness Specialist Certified Personal Trainer, & Founder - 360Girls&Women®

Sue-Ellen Anderson Haynes, MS, RDN, CDCES, LDN, NASM-CPT, founder of 360Girls&Women® Award Winning and Nationally recognized nutrition and food expert and leading global expert in Gestational Diabetes. "What makes us different?"

360 represents completion. At 360 G+W we provide personalized insight to help girls and women dramatically improve their wellbeing.​Our mission is to provide evidence-based information and services to help maximize a woman's complete health through the complete life-cycle - preventing, managing, and reversing certain reproductive and chronic illnesses- using nutrition as the foundation along with other innovative holistic practices. Read more. 

 

References 

Chivese T, Mahmoud W, Magodoro I, Kengne AP, Norris SA, Levitt NS. Prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus in women of childbearing age in Africa during 2000-2016: protocol of a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMJ Open. 2016;6(12):e012255. Published 2016 Dec 13. doi:10.1136/bmjopen-2016-012255 

Ciarambino T, Crispino P, Leto G, Mastrolorenzo E, Para O, Giordano M. Influence of Gender in Diabetes Mellitus and Its Complication. Int J Mol Sci. 2022;23(16):8850. Published 2022 Aug 9. doi:10.3390/ijms23168850 

Kautzky-Willer A, Leutner M, Harreiter J. Sex differences in type 2 diabetes [published correction appears in Diabetologia. 2023 Jun;66(6):1165. doi: 10.1007/s00125-023-05913-8]. Diabetologia. 2023;66(6):986-1002. doi:10.1007/s00125-023-05891-x