Overview of Juvenile Diabetes (Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus)

Juvenile Diabetes is also known as Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus, is a chronic autoimmune condition in which the pancreas produces little to no insulin which is a hormone essential for allowing glucose to enter cells for energy. Unlike Type 2 diabetes, it often starts in childhood or adolescence, but it can develop at any age. Managing this condition requires lifelong insulin therapy, blood sugar monitoring and lifestyle adaptations.

Types of Juvenile Diabetes (Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus)

• Type 1A Diabetes: Caused by autoimmune destruction of insulin-producing beta cells.
• Type 1B Diabetes: Non-autoimmune but still involves loss of insulin production; more common in people of African or Asian descent.
• Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults (LADA): Often misdiagnosed as Type 2; develops slowly in adults.

Symptoms of Juvenile Diabetes (Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus)

Frequent urination and excessive thirst

Sudden and unexplained weight loss

Extreme hunger even after eating

Fatigue and weakness

Blurred vision

Mood changes or irritability

Bedwetting in children who previously didn’t

Slow-healing sores or frequent infections

Causes of Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus

Autoimmune response mistakenly attacks insulin-producing beta cells.

Genetic predisposition plays a significant role.

Environmental triggers like viruses or dietary factors in early childhood.

Family history of Type 1 Diabetes increases risk.

Complications in Juvenile Diabetes (Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus)

Diabetic ketoacidosis (a life-threatening condition due to insulin deficiency)

Long-term organ damage affecting kidneys, eyes, nerves and heart

Growth delays in children

Increased risk of other autoimmune disorders

Skin and foot complications

Risk Factors of Juvenile Diabetes (Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus)

Family history of Type 1 Diabetes

Certain genes linked to autoimmune diseases

Viral infections during infancy or early childhood

Early introduction of cow’s milk or gluten (being researched)

Geography – higher prevalence in colder climates

Preventions of Juvenile Diabetes (Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus)

While Type 1 diabetes currently has no guaranteed prevention, these steps may help with early awareness:

Genetic testing in high-risk families

Monitoring for islet autoantibodies in children with family history

Breastfeeding for at least 6 months may offer protective benefits

Delay introduction of cow’s milk in infants when possible