2014 January 4; 383(9911): 69–82 | Mark A Atkinson, PhD [Prof], George S Eisenbarth, MD [Prof], and Aaron W Michels, MD
This article provides an overview of the current understanding and management of Type 1 Diabetes (T1D). T1D is characterized by the autoimmune destruction of insulin-producing pancreatic β cells, leading to lifelong insulin replacement. The disease can onset at any age but is more common in children and adolescents, with classic symptoms including polydipsia, polyphagia, and polyuria. Despite significant advancements in technology, such as insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitors, there is still no cure or method to prevent T1D. The global incidence of T1D varies, with higher rates in Finland and Sardinia compared to China and India. Environmental factors, genetic predisposition, and immune responses play crucial roles in the development of the disease. The article discusses the challenges in diagnosing T1D, particularly distinguishing it from Type 2 Diabetes, and highlights the importance of early intervention to preserve β-cell function. Current management strategies focus on insulin therapy, with ongoing research exploring new treatments like closed-loop systems and immune interventions. The article also addresses the burden of T1D, including complications and access to insulin, and outlines ongoing efforts to prevent and cure the disease. Despite significant progress, many questions remain, particularly about the environmental and genetic contributors to T1D and the development of effective therapies.This article provides an overview of the current understanding and management of Type 1 Diabetes (T1D). T1D is characterized by the autoimmune destruction of insulin-producing pancreatic β cells, leading to lifelong insulin replacement. The disease can onset at any age but is more common in children and adolescents, with classic symptoms including polydipsia, polyphagia, and polyuria. Despite significant advancements in technology, such as insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitors, there is still no cure or method to prevent T1D. The global incidence of T1D varies, with higher rates in Finland and Sardinia compared to China and India. Environmental factors, genetic predisposition, and immune responses play crucial roles in the development of the disease. The article discusses the challenges in diagnosing T1D, particularly distinguishing it from Type 2 Diabetes, and highlights the importance of early intervention to preserve β-cell function. Current management strategies focus on insulin therapy, with ongoing research exploring new treatments like closed-loop systems and immune interventions. The article also addresses the burden of T1D, including complications and access to insulin, and outlines ongoing efforts to prevent and cure the disease. Despite significant progress, many questions remain, particularly about the environmental and genetic contributors to T1D and the development of effective therapies.