Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes is a chronic (lifelong), debilitating autoimmune disease that occurs when the pancreas produces too little insulin to regulate blood sugar levels appropriately. It is usually diagnosed in children and young adults, and was previously known as juvenile diabetes or insulin-dependent diabetes.

In this case, the body does not produce insulin. Insulin is a hormone that is needed to convert sugar (glucose), starches and other food into energy needed for daily life.

Diabetes is a serious disease, but people with diabetes can live long, healthy, happy lives.


Warning Signs

• Extreme thirst
• Frequent urination
• Sudden vision changes
• Sugar in urine
• Fruity, sweet, or wine-like odor on breath
• Increased appetite
• Sudden weight loss
• Drowsiness, lethargy
• Heavy, labored breathing
• Stupor, unconsciousness

Researches and Technologies

• By finding all the genes and environmental factors (e.g., viruses, toxins, dietary factors) that contribute to type 1 diabetes, researchers will develop ways to safely prevent or reverse the autoimmune destruction of insulin-producing cells.
• Methods for safely imaging the insulin-producing beta cells will help scientists better understand the disease process and assess the benefits of treatments and preventions that are under study.
• Toxic suppression of the immune system to prevent rejection of transplanted organs and tissues will be replaced with safer, more targeted methods of immune modulation.
• New technologies, such as a closed loop system that automatically senses blood glucose and adjusts insulin dosage precisely, will become available.

See Also

• Conditions & Treatments
• Complications
• Attention to Body's Well Being
• Diabetes Medications