Type 1 diabetes is a medical condition in which blood sugar levels become too high due to the body’s inability to produce enough insulin—or any at all. While there is currently no way to prevent or cure type 1 diabetes, treatments are available that allow individuals to live healthy, fulfilling lives.

This form of diabetes occurs when the pancreas, a small organ located behind the stomach, fails to produce insulin. Insulin is essential for helping the body process glucose and convert it into energy. Without insulin, glucose accumulates in the bloodstream, which over time can damage vital organs such as the eyes, kidneys, nerves, and blood vessels.

In the United States, type 1 diabetes accounts for about 5–10% of all diabetes cases. Millions of people are living with the condition, and thousands more are diagnosed each year. Although the exact cause is still unknown, the condition is believed to stem from an abnormal autoimmune response in which the body attacks its own insulin-producing cells.

Who Is Most at Risk?

The causes of type 1 diabetes are less clearly understood than those of type 2 diabetes. It is known that the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the beta cells in the pancreas—the cells responsible for producing insulin. This immune response slows or halts insulin production, leading to diabetes.

Two of the main risk factors associated with type 1 diabetes are:

  • Age: Type 1 diabetes is most often diagnosed in children, teens, and young adults.

  • Family history: Having a close relative, such as a parent or sibling, with type 1 diabetes increases your risk.

Although type 1 diabetes affects both boys and girls, studies show that girls are typically diagnosed at a younger age. For adults over 20, men are more frequently diagnosed than women.

Ongoing research is exploring environmental influences that might contribute to type 1 diabetes, such as infections during pregnancy or early childhood diet. At this time, no single direct cause has been confirmed.

The Role of Genetics

Type 1 diabetes is not directly inherited, but people with a family history of the condition are at greater risk. The presence of certain genes can increase susceptibility, although having these genes does not guarantee that a person will develop diabetes.

Type 1 diabetes is more common in white populations in the U.S. and less common in Black, Hispanic, or Latin communities. These differences are still being studied, and no conclusive explanation exists yet.

While there’s no definitive test to predict type 1 diabetes, healthcare providers can check for the presence of autoantibodies—proteins produced by the immune system that attack healthy cells. People who test positive for certain autoantibodies may be more likely to develop the condition. Regular check-ups can help catch signs of abnormal blood sugar levels early.

Can Risk Be Reduced?

Currently, there are no proven medical treatments or interventions that can prevent type 1 diabetes. While many believe the condition only affects children, it can develop at any age. Early detection is essential to begin treatment and reduce long-term complications.

Though some people develop type 1 diabetes after a viral infection, no specific virus has been identified as the sole trigger. Researchers continue to explore which infections might provoke the immune system to attack insulin-producing cells.

Studies have investigated whether changes in diet, early use of insulin, omega-3 supplements, or immune-suppressing medications could help prevent the condition. So far, none of these strategies have been shown to effectively prevent type 1 diabetes.

Screenings and Testing

Type 1 diabetes is not commonly screened for unless symptoms are present. It’s important to recognize signs of the condition early. Common symptoms include:

  • Frequent urination

  • Persistent thirst

  • Constant hunger

  • Unexplained weight loss

  • Fatigue

  • Blurry vision

  • Slow-healing wounds

If any of these symptoms occur, contact a healthcare provider. Diagnostic testing may include:

  • Blood tests: To measure blood sugar levels and detect high glucose.

  • Urine tests: To check for ketones, which can indicate diabetic ketoacidosis.

These tests are often performed during regular clinic visits and are generally safe and quick. A fasting blood test may require you to avoid eating beforehand.

Lifestyle Habits

Lifestyle choices, such as diet or exercise, do not cause or prevent type 1 diabetes. If diagnosed, your healthcare provider will offer guidance on how to manage the condition through diet, medication, and other supportive treatments.

Medications and Treatment

There are currently no medications available that can prevent type 1 diabetes. However, insulin therapy is the primary treatment used to control blood sugar levels. Your healthcare provider will explain how to use insulin safely and effectively.

Surgical Options

Some research has focused on organ transplantation as a possible treatment for people with severe type 1 diabetes. This includes pancreas or islet cell transplants. While these procedures can improve blood sugar control in some cases, they are expensive, carry significant risks, and are not cures. Transplants are usually reserved for people who have difficulty managing their diabetes through standard treatment options. Research in this area is ongoing.

Talk to Your Healthcare Provider

If you have a family history of type 1 diabetes, talk with your healthcare provider about potential symptoms and whether testing might be appropriate. You can still develop the condition even without a known family history, so it's important to be aware of warning signs. In some cases, diabetes is only diagnosed after serious complications arise, so don’t wait to seek medical advice if you have concerns.

New information about type 1 diabetes is emerging all the time. Stay informed and consult your provider before making any major changes to your health routine.

A Quick Review

Type 1 diabetes is believed to be an autoimmune condition that prevents the pancreas from producing insulin. While there is no known way to prevent or cure the disease, early detection and treatment can help manage symptoms and reduce complications. Recognizing the warning signs—such as increased thirst, hunger, and urination—can lead to faster diagnosis and a healthier life with proper care.