Aims/hypothesis: We investigated associations between family history and active lifestyle, separately and in combination, to diabetes indicators HbA1c, fasting blood sugar (FBS) and resting blood sugar (RBS). Subjects and methods: This cross-sectional study comprised 532 patients, aged 22–88 years, with 53.4% women and 28% having a family history in diabetes. Information on lifestyle factors was obtained by questionnaire, and diabetes indicators through case sheets. Results: The cohort with family history in diabetes had higher values of diabetes indicators, similarly the patients who led a less-active lifestyle had significantly higher values. The factors attributed significantly to the values of HbA1c, FBS and RBS. Among the 3, HbA1c had a higher impact of lifestyle, and its synergy along with family history amplified the impact. HbA1c values ranged from 6.8% to 9%, for patients with no history and relatively active lifestyle, to ones with family history and sedentary lifestyle, respectively. Conclusions/interpretation: Our analysis suggested a synergetic impact of lifestyle and family history on diabetes patients. While both family history of diabetes and lifestyle risk factors had effects on type 2 diabetes, irrespective of sex, lifestyle attributed to more pronounced impact. Among the 2, lifestyle is a more manageable factor and can be improved with regular counselling, motivation, education, and awareness.