But you can do your part to reduce the risk of getting the disease. "If you have a family history of diabetes or other risk factors, it should be a wake-up call to you. You can take one path or the other, but I recommend the path toward a healthier life," says Donna Voigt, manager of Diabetes Services for ProHealth Care in Waukesha.

One of the most important steps you can take is to literally take some steps. "Exercise is very important. It can help you lose weight and reduce your blood sugar. Aim for 150 minutes of exercise during the week," according to Patricia Celek, diabetes educator with Aurora West Allis Medical Center.

Children are at higher risk than ever for type II diabetes, which used to be called adult onset diabetes, according to Dr. Brian Fidlin, psychologist with Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin. Children’s Hospital has the NEW Kid’s™ program, which is geared toward a holistic treatment for overweight children."The level of inactivity among kids is much too high. We recommend 60 minutes of activity per day for children," says Fidlin. "Turn off the TV and go for a walk or do some chores around the house."

The other important issue is diet. "The impact that high fat, high sugar treats and beverages has on people’s lives is tremendous. Soda, fruit juice and chocolate milk all have a large amount of sugar. There are much healthier options," Fidlin says.

"I suggest drink choices that are labeled sugar-free, light or diet," says Christina Rogers, dietitian diabetes educator with Aurora West Allis Medical Center. "Water is the most healthy, nonsugary beverage, but oftentimes, people want to vary what they drink with something that has flavor," she says. "No matter what you’re eating or drinking, read the nutrition labels and look at sugar content." Choosing fresh fruits and vegetables as well as lower fat meats is important.

To sum up, the best way to stop diabetes is to get active and eat right. "Exercise is free diabetes prevention medicine," Celek says

5 Risk factors for diabetes

1. Family history
2. Overweight/obesity
3. High blood pressure
4. High cholesterol
5. Inactive lifestyle

Dietitian Christina Rogers recommends making water your beverage of choice to keep the body hydrated. In addition, she recommends choosing beverages that are mainly water, but have some added flavor.

1. Water
2. Propel
3. Diet V8 Splash
4. Crystal Light drink mix

"Eating high fat, high sugar snacks can raise blood sugar and increase the risk of diabetic complications," says diabetes educator Pat Celek. Instead, she recommends low fat or higher fiber treats that help to keep blood sugar low.

1. Low-fat string cheese
2. No-fat or no-sugar yogurt
3. Fresh fruit and vegetables
4. Baked potato chips
5. Whole wheat pretzels