ABOUT TYPE 1 DIABETES

T1D is an autoimmune disease that causes the body’s immune system to mistakenly destroy insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. This means that the pancreas stops producing insulin, the hormone that controls blood-sugar levels , and exogenous insulin must be taken (by injection or pump) for the rest of that person’s life. The cause of this attack is still being researched, however scientists believe the cause has genetic and environmental components.

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Type 1 diabetes is a 24/7 disease that requires constant management. People with T1D continuously and carefully balance insulin intake against eating, exercise and other activities. They must also measure blood-sugar levels through finger pricks or by wearing a flash or continuous glucose monitor. 

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Even with a strict regimen, people with T1D may still experience dangerously high or low blood-glucose levels that can in extreme cases, be life threatening. 

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T1D can occur in people of any age, and its causes are not fully known. Genetics plays a role, as the condition tends to run in families, but 85-90% of people who are diagnosed have no family history. What we do know is that diet or lifestyle don’t cause T1D, it isn’t contagious or something you can outgrow, and it’s not currently not preventable or curable.

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