A study recently presented at a meeting of the Endocrine Society found that those who are regularly exposed to secondhand smoke may have a higher chance of obesity and type 2 diabetes.

The U.S. National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey noted that a sizable percentage of those who were exposed to secondhand smoke had more significant levels of insulin resistance, and this could lead to a diabetic condition. However, while there was a connection of the three conditions, the report did not find a causational link.

"The association between secondhand smoke and type 2 diabetes was not due to obesity," said Dr. Theodore Friedman, study co-author and chairman of the department of internal medicine at Charles R. Drew University. "More studies are needed to show whether secondhand smoke is a cause of diabetes. In addition, more effort needs to be made to reduce exposure of individuals to secondhand smoke."

Those who want to get examined for issues such as diabetes, but don't think they can afford the proper coverage, may want to look for policies with affordable health insurance rates. Many of these options are available, and consumers may want to look at various options to find one best-suited for them.