Both type 1 and type 2 diabetes run in families – there is definitely a genetic component to both of them. This is particularly strong in type 2 diabetes because people with type 2 diabetes typically have a lot of relatives who have diabetes as well. People with type 1 diabetes may not have as many relatives with diabetes. In type 2, since it’s an asymptomatic condition, it’s really important to be tested because if you have a relative with diabetes, your risk is much increased. People with relatives who have diabetes need to be tested for type 2 diabetes.