What is type 1 diabetes?

Type 1 diabetes is a chronic condition that develops when the pancreas stops producing insulin, an important hormone that regulates blood sugar (glucose) and allows it to enter the cells, where it is converted into the energy that keeps the body running.
/static/themes-v3/default/images/default/info/maladie/intro.jpg?1516194360

There are two main kinds of diabetes. Type 1 and type 2. Type 1 is commonly known as insulin-dependant or juvenile diabetes, and rightfully so. It is mainly diagnosed in kids and teenagers, but officially it can be diagnosed at any age, usually before the age of 40.

What happens in type 1 diabetes?

When the body stops producing insulin, the sugar in the blood cannot be transported to the cells and be converted into energy. The sugar will stay in the blood, causing high blood sugar levels, which can be a serious health issue.

Type 1 diabetes is a lifelong disease and therefore you need to receive insulin treatments for the rest of your life, once diagnosed. Physical activity, healthy diet and blood glucose testing will also be important aspects of a life with type 1 diabetes.

Source: Diabetes UK

Last updated: 11/27/17

avatar Carenity Editorial Team

Author: Carenity Editorial Team, Editorial Team

The Carenity Editorial Team is made up of experienced editors and specialists in the healthcare field who aim to provide impartial and high quality information. Our editorial content is proofread, edited and... >> Learn more

Fact sheets

Diabetes (Type 1) on the forum

See the forum Diabetes (Type 1)

Newsfeed - Diabetes (Type 1)

Read the article