WHAT OTHER FACTORS INCREASE MY RISK OF GETTING DIABETES? QUESTION 16

16.What other factors increase my risk of getting diabetes?

Besides excess weight, hereditary risk, and lack of exercise, another factor that can increase the risk of developing diabetes is the use of certain medications. Among these medications, the type associated most strongly with increased risk are the steroids (also called glucocorticoids), whose members include prednisone, methylprednisolone, hydrocortisone, and dexamethasone.

The steroids belong to a class of naturally occurring stress hormones known as counterregulatory hormones, which prepare the body to combat stress. They tend to raise blood sugar.