What is Type 1 diabetes?

In Type 1 diabetes, the immune system gets confused and attacks the insulin cells in the pancreas. Insulin allows the body to use food for energy. Without enough insulin, the body cannot function properly. Once a person gets symptoms of low insulin levels, the needed insulin must be replaced, usually by injections or an insulin pump.

Common symptoms include:

• Increased thirst
• Frequent urination
• Waking at night to urinate or bedwetting in children
• Tiredness
• Blurred vision
• If Type 1 diabetes is not recognized and treated, a life-threatening metabolic condition called diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) can develop. DKA requires emergency treatment in the hospital. 

We don’t know exactly why some folks get Type 1 diabetes, but several factors increase risk. Genetics plays a role, so people with a family history have a higher risk. Having another autoimmune condition also increases risk. However, most people who get Type 1 diabetes do NOT have a family history of this disease. Therefore, screening is helpful even for people without known risk factors.

We know that by testing early blood markers (antibodies) linked to Type 1 diabetes, we can detect Type 1 diabetes before symptoms begin. 

Early detection can:

• Help individuals and families plan care and stay safe.
• Reduce the risk of emergency complications.
• Allow time for people to get treatments that slow the underlying disease and delay the need for insulin. One therapy is currently approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for some of these patients. Other clinical trials are now testing several new treatments.