Diabetes is a hormonal condition which escalates your blood sugar levels. There are two types diabetes: Type 1 and type 2. The former, however, is far less common than the later. According to the estimates of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, US, only 5 to 10 per cent of diabetics suffer from type 1, globally. Scientists haven’t yet been able to find out the cause behind this type of diabetes. A family history of type 1 diabetes and certain environmental factors can up your risk of this condition.
What Is Type 1 Diabetes?
“Type 1 diabetes is a condition common in children and young people. It is also known as juvenile diabetes,” says Mumbai-based diabetologist Dr. Pradeep Gadge. It occurs when your immune cells destroy the beta cells of your pancreas, responsible for the secretion of insulin hormone. It is required to convert glucose onto energy. “When your body doesn’t have enough of this hormone, glucose doesn’t turn into energy. This increases the level of glucose or sugar in the blood and urine,” explains Dr. Gadge.
What Causes Type 1 Diabetes?
“The exact cause of type 1 diabetes is still unknown. There is no defined set of population to be considered at risk. However, research indicates that people who have a pool of autoantibodies in their body are at a higher risk of developing it,” says Dr Gadge. Research also suggests that genetic and environmental factors may play an instrumental role in the inception of type 1 diabetes.
Type 1 Diabetes Risks
A lot is yet to be found out about type 1 diabetes. The factors that can make one vulnerable to this condition are also poorly understood. However, experts have identified some high-risk groups:
- Children who have both the parents suffering from diabetes
- Kids who have mothers with a history of gestational diabetes (diabetes during pregnancy)
- Kids who have suffered an infection, injury or trauma of the pancreas
- People living in cold climates
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