You may find this article very helpful. It touches on the things that commonly lead to Type 2 diabetes. I'm assuming that this is the type of diabetes you are talking about. The good news is if you work with your doctor and get a health plan together, you can stave off Type 2 diabetes. Let us know if we can further assist you. https://www.webmd.com/diabetes/diabetes-causes
The answer to this question is well known and easy to find on the Internet
Type 1 diabetes is caused by an autoimmune reaction that destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. This leads to a lack of insulin, which the body needs to use glucose for energy. The exact cause of type 1 diabetes is unknown, but it is thought to be related to genetics and environmental factors.
Type 2 diabetes, on the other hand, is caused by a combination of genetic factors and lifestyle. People who are overweight or obese, lead sedentary lifestyles, have a family history of diabetes, or have high blood pressure or cholesterol levels are at increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
I agree that Type 2 Diabetes is mostly a lifestyle condition. Eating the wrong types of food, along with too much and inadequate exercise, is also a contributor to Type 2 Diabetes. Simple carbohydrates (sugar, white bread, potatoes, rice, etc) tend to increase glucose levels quickly, causing the pancreas to produce more insulin. Over a period of time, body cells can become less sensitive to the insulin, which means we have to produce more in order to reduce the glucose levels.
Exercise and diet will go a long way toward avoiding full blown Diabetes.
Type 1 Diabetes is an autoimmune condition, which can’t be avoided or cured.
Diabetes 2 is normally a lifestyle illness. Our genetics may play a role in giving us a predisposition but overall, our lifestyle is what creates the situation of diabetes 2. We eat too much. We are too inactive. Being overweight, obese and inactive are big big factors. Genetics as said also plays a role along with family history. Your age and race also play a part. Losing some weight, exercising (if you are cleared to do so by your doctor), managing diet will help.