What is considered a significant risk factor for the development of diabetes?

Choosing "D. All of the above" is accurate because all the listed factors—age over 40, family history of diabetes, and obesity—are indeed significant risk factors for the development of diabetes, particularly Type 2 diabetes.

Age is a crucial factor, as the risk of developing diabetes increases significantly in individuals over the age of 40 due to cumulative lifestyle factors and the natural decline in insulin sensitivity that occurs with aging. Family history contributes to the genetic predisposition to diabetes, meaning that if a close relative has the condition, there is an increased risk for other family members. Lastly, obesity is a well-established risk factor; excessive body weight, particularly central adiposity, is known to contribute to insulin resistance, which is a key mechanism in the development of Type 2 diabetes.

Collectively, these factors highlight the multidimensional nature of diabetes risk, demonstrating how biological, genetic, and lifestyle elements interplay in increasing an individual’s likelihood of developing the disease.