by EBSCO Medical Review Board

Type 1 diabetes happens when the immune system harms cells that make insulin. Insulin moves glucose from the blood to the cells. Without it, glucose builds up in the blood instead of being used by the cells. This is more common in children and young adults. It can start at any age.

Insulin must be taken every day. Diet and exercise are also needed. Blood glucose levels that are not controlled can lead to problems such as:

  • peripheral artery disease
  • stroke
  • diseases of the eyes, kidneys, and nerves

    • How Type 1 Diabetes Occurs
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    What are the risk factors for type 1 diabetes?What are the symptoms of type 1 diabetes?How is type 1 diabetes diagnosed?What are the treatments for type 1 diabetes?Are there screening tests for type 1 diabetes?What are the complications of type 1 diabetes?How can I reduce my risk of type 1 diabetes?What questions should I ask my doctor?Where can I get more information about type 1 diabetes?

    References

    American Diabetes Association. Standards of medical care in diabetes—2019. Diabetes Care, 2019; 42 (Suppl 1): S1-193.

    Diabetes mellitus type 1. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/diabetes-mellitus-type-1-39. Accessed May 5, 2022.

    Type 1 diabetes. American Diabetes Association website. Available at: https://www.diabetes.org/diabetes/type-1. Accessed May 5, 2022.

    Revision Information

    • Reviewer: EBSCO Medical Review Board James P. Cornell, MD
    • Review Date: 03/2022
    • Update Date: 05/05/2022