For last week’s practice question, we quizzed participants on the new ADA Standards and the development of type 2 diabetes. 42.48% of respondents chose the best answer. We want to clarify and share this important information, so you can pass it on to people living with diabetes and your colleagues, plus prepare for exam success!
Before we start though, if you don’t want any spoilers and haven’t tried the question yet, you can answer it below: Answer Question
According to the new 2026 ADA Standards, “type 2 diabetes is associated with insulin secretory defects related to” which of the following?
- BMI and activity level.
- Lifestyle and inflammation.
- Genetics and visceral adipose distribution.
- Epigenetics and metabolic stress.
Getting to the Best Answer
Answer A is incorrect: 14.85% chose this answer, “BMI and activity level.” This answer is incorrect but tempting. BMI level is used as a a screening tool for prediabetes and diabetes risk, but is not included as a factor contributing to secretory defects. According to the ADA, there are four factors related to insulin secretory defects in type 2 diabetes. They include; genetics, epigenetics, metabolic stress and inflammation.
Answer B is incorrect: 16.92% chose this answer, “Lifestyle and inflammation.” This juicy answer is incorrect. Lifestyle is not a direct factor related to insulin secretory defects, but inflammation is a contributor. According to the ADA, there are four factors related to insulin secretory defects in type 2 diabetes. They include; genetics, epigenetics, metabolic stress and inflammation.
Answer C is incorrect: 25.75% chose this answer, “Genetics and visceral adipose distribution.” This answer is incorrect. Visceral adiposity is associated with an increased risk for diabetes, but does not contribute to insulin secretory defects. According to the ADA, there are four factors related to insulin secretory defects in type 2 diabetes. They include; genetics, epigenetics, metabolic stress and inflammation.
Answer D is correct: 42.48% chose this answer, “Epigenetics and metabolic stress.” This answer is correct, GREAT JOB! According to the ADA, there are four factors related to insulin secretory defects in type 2 diabetes. They include; genetics, epigenetics, metabolic stress and inflammation.
We hope you appreciate this week’s rationale! Thank you so much for taking the time to answer our Question of the Week and participate in this fun learning activity!
Join Coach Bev!
Take a Deep Dive Into the 2026 ADA Standards
On January 29th, 2026 at 11:30 AM PST
