Alcohol and smoking: Risk factors for diabetes?

Yes, both heavy alcohol use and smoking can increase the risk of diabetes.

Alcoholism
The pancreas releases the hormone insulin, which helps regulate blood sugar (glucose). Heavy alcohol use can cause chronic inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis). This can lead to permanent damage to the pancreas and impair its ability to secrete insulin, which can result in diabetes.

Smoking
Smoking not only increases the risk of pancreatic cancer, but can also increase blood sugar levels and reduce your body's ability to use insulin. In addition, the chemicals in tobacco can damage blood vessels, muscles and organs. This may also increase your risk of diabetes. Pregnant women who smoke have an increased risk of diabetes during pregnancy (gestational diabetes).