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If diabetes is not properly controlled the risks increase over the years. Diabetic Risks include atherosclerosis- blockage in the arteries caused by fatty depositsf and small blood vessel disease, causing damage to organs in the body.
The following risk factors are important to note:
Family history of diabetes (parent or sibling) Age greater than 45 years Gestational diabetes or delivering a baby weighing more than 9 pounds High blood levels of triglycerides (a type of fat molecule)	Obesity Certain ethnic groups (particularly African-Americans and Hispanic Americans) High blood pressure *High blood cholesterol level
The organs most affected by diabetes are the kidneys, eyes, nervous system, circulation system and skin problems. The diseases most commonly associated with diabetics are: Cardiovascular disease: heart attack and strokes. Retinopathy: Blindness Nephropathy: Kidney failure. Neuropathy: Numbness and loss of sensation in the legs. Arterial disease in the legs: Diabetic foot problems (non healing ulcers, infection, gangrene) and amputation.