(April 27, 2009 - Insidermedicine) Lifestyle factors largely determine who will develop type 2 diabetes among those aged 65 and older, according to a study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine.

Here is some information about type 2 diabetes:

•    The body does not produce enough insulin and/or the cells don't respond properly to the insulin that is present.

•    Complications include heart disease, blindness, nerve damage, and kidney damage.

•    You can reduce the risk of these complications by being more active, eating better, and taking medication as prescribed.

Researchers from Harvard Medical School followed nearly 5,000 adults aged 65 and older for 10 years. They looked at how physical activity, diet, smoking, alcohol, BMI, and waist circumference were associated with type 2 diabetes.

It was found that each of the lifestyle factors had an impact on whether the participants developed type 2 diabetes. Those with the healthiest lifestyle habits were nearly 90% less likely to develop type 2 diabetes than the rest of the participants.

We had a chance to speak with Dr. Dariush Mozaffarian, the principal investigator of this study, who offered some further insight.

Today's research shows how older adults can avoid developing type 2 diabetes by ensuring that they maintain a healthy lifestyle.

For Insidermedicine in Depth, I'm Dr. Susan Sharma.