The role of low birthweight in the aetiology of type 2 diabetes.
The aetiology of type 2 diabetes is still poorly understood. Although it is clear that obesity is a risk factor for the disease, obesity leads to diabetes only in susceptible individuals. Both genetic and environmental factors determine this susceptibility. This review describes the emerging evidence that low birthweight caused by malnutrition or a genetic predisposition increases the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Thorburn
A W
AW
Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Victoria, Australia.
Proietto
J
J
D001724:Birth Weight / Q000235:genetics / Q000502:physiology*; D003924:Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000235:genetics / Q000503:physiopathology*; D005333:Fetus / Q000503:physiopathology; D020022:Genetic Predisposition to Disease; D006801:Humans; D007333:Insulin Resistance; D012307:Risk Factors; D014507:Urbanization