<qa>  What is the risk factor that can be a factor in determining the risk of chronic complications2. Are secular changes in type 2 incidence rates continuing, and is this occurring in all age-, sex- and ethnic strata? Hypothesis 3. A complex interplay of heritable, behavioral, and treatment factors can accelerate or delay the development of chronic diabetes complications. It is particularly compelling to understand this process in young patients, those with the most years of productive life at risk. ... Recent observations indicate that features of the metabolic syndrome, over and above glycemic control, are potent risk factors for macrovascular complications. Familial aggregation of these traits may itself play a role in determining the risk of chronic complications among young people with diabetes. 