In brief
A condition in which the immune system attacks and destroys the cells in the pancreas that make insulin. It is usually autoimmune, and people with it need insulin replacement.
- All people with type 1 diabetes need insulin, according to the National Diabetes Services Scheme.
- Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a medical emergency in which the body burns fat instead of glucose for energy, producing ketones.
- Missing insulin injections is one of the risks for DKA.
How it works
It can start at any age but is more commonly diagnosed in young people, most often between 10 and 14. Symptoms are often remembered as the 4 Ts, which are thirst, going to the toilet more often, getting thinner without trying, and feeling tired or weak. Some people also have blurred vision. The exact cause is not known, there is a genetic component, and type 1 diabetes cannot be prevented, even with a healthy lifestyle.
Treatment means insulin replacement, using an insulin pen or pump, and learning to monitor and manage blood glucose, with regular blood tests and health checks. Low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia) is a common and sometimes serious complication of insulin therapy. Long-term complications can include heart disease, stroke, and eye, kidney, foot and nerve problems, and there is a higher risk of depression.
Looking after it
Call triple zero (000) for an ambulance if someone with diabetes has signs of DKA or becomes confused or unconscious.
Connections
4 connections on the map. Select a topic to read its page.
Type 1 diabetes can be caused by
Type 1 diabetes is usually an autoimmune condition, in which the immune system destroys the cells that make insulin.
Type 1 diabetes affects
In type 1 diabetes the immune system attacks and destroys the cells in the pancreas that normally make insulin.
Type 1 diabetes can lower
Without its insulin-making cells, the body needs insulin replacement to manage blood glucose.
Type 1 diabetes can raise
Heart disease, stroke and kidney disease are among the long-term complications of type 1 diabetes.
Medicines and supplements
General education only. Never start, stop or change a medicine without your prescriber.
Sources
Each connection above names its own source. See every source AskBioMap uses.
Summarised from healthdirect and the National Diabetes Services Scheme. Sources read on 19 October 2026. General education only, not medical advice. Spotted a mistake? Please tell us through the HuBu-Intel contact page.