Final answer:
Individuals with newly diagnosed diabetes, specifically type 1, are the most at risk for DKA. Among those with type 2 diabetes, Hispanic and African-American populations, along with those who are obese and have poor glycemic control are at a higher risk of developing ketoacidosis. Proper management of type 2 diabetes through lifestyle changes can prevent progression to requiring insulin therapy.
Step-by-step explanation:
The patient population most at risk for Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) is those with newly diagnosed diabetes, especially type 1, where the disease has not yet been identified and they are not on insulin. DKA is less common in type 2 diabetes but it can occur in some circumstances, such as severe illness or infection. Factors that increase the risk of DKA in type 2 diabetes include obesity and a history of poor glycemic control. Among those with type 2 diabetes Hispanic and African-American individuals are at a higher risk of developing ketoacidosis for reasons that are not fully understood. Type 2 diabetes, which accounts for approximately 90-95% of all diabetes cases is associated with insulin resistance and is most likely to develop in individuals who are obese and have other indicators of metabolic syndrome. This type of diabetes is increasingly being diagnosed in younger populations due to the rise in obesity rates.
Risk factors for type 2 diabetes include a poor diet, inactivity, and the presence of pre-diabetes. A significant number of type 2 diabetes patients are overweight or obese and cells in their bodies become resistant to insulin. However, with moderate weight loss, regular physical activity and a healthy diet, type 2 diabetes can often be managed or even reversed. If glucose levels cannot be controlled, individuals with type 2 diabetes may eventually require insulin therapy.