What causes type 2 diabetes?

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    Last Updated: May 16, 2025

    Type 2 diabetes is caused by a combination of genetic factors and environmental influences, including obesity, an inflammatory diet, and a sedentary lifestyle. Abdominal obesity is particularly significant because it is associated to excess fat accumulation in the liver and pancreas, and all 3 are an unwanted result of long-term overconsumption of energy.

    The cause of T2D is multifactorial, based on genetic predisposition and environment. Obesity, inflammatory diet, and sedentary lifestyle all contribute to the risk of developing T2D. Abdominal obesity is a strong risk factor for T2D, and leads to the accumulation of more fat in the liver and pancreas than a person can tolerate, which results from long-term excess energy intake.[1]