Which of the following is not a modifiable risk factor in the case of diabetes?

Appeared in: JODHPUR AIIMS SNO-2018

Explanation

Age is classified as a non-modifiable risk factor, meaning it is a characteristic that cannot be altered.
The risk of developing type 2 diabetes increases significantly with advancing age, particularly after 45-50 years.
This increased risk is due to a combination of factors, including potential age-related increases in insulin resistance and a decline in pancreatic beta-cell function.

Option B: Salt intake is a dietary choice and is therefore a modifiable risk factor. Individuals can choose to reduce their salt consumption.
Option C: Alcohol intake is a lifestyle choice and is considered a modifiable risk factor. Excessive consumption can contribute to obesity and pancreatic damage, increasing diabetes risk.
Option D: Obesity is a major modifiable risk factor for type 2 diabetes. Weight loss through diet and exercise can significantly reduce insulin resistance and lower the risk of developing the disease.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Distinguishing between modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors for diabetes as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
A key nursing role in chronic disease management is patient education. Nurses must clearly explain the difference between modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors.
Empowering patients to focus on changing their modifiable risk factors (diet, exercise, weight management) is a cornerstone of diabetes prevention and care.
What if? If a patient has multiple non-modifiable risk factors (e.g., older age, strong family history), it becomes even more critical for the nurse to aggressively promote and support the management of their modifiable risks to delay or prevent disease onset.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key terms in the question: 'not' and 'modifiable risk factor'. This means you are looking for an option that cannot be changed.
Define 'modifiable' in your mind: something that can be altered through personal choice or action.
Evaluate each option against this definition:
Can a person change their age? No.
Can a person change their salt intake? Yes, by altering their diet.
Can a person change their alcohol intake? Yes, by choosing to drink less or not at all.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: Distinguishing between modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors for diabetes.
Stem keywords: modifiable risk factor, diabetes
Lead-in keywords: not
Negative lead-in flag: The question asks to identify the factor that is NOT modifiable.

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E6 Medicine Davidson Principles Practice 24e p. 752-754

E6 Parks TextBook of Preventive & Social Medicine part 1 — Subpart C (pp 404-604 of 604) p. 42-44

Practise the full JODHPUR AIIMS SNO-2018

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.