Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) is an autoimmune disease — that means your immune system is attacking your own body.

 

In kids with Type 1 Diabetes, their immune system destroys cells in the pancreas that make insulin. Insulin helps you to use the energy from food. Children with T1D need daily insulin injections to stay alive and healthy.

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In Colorado, almost 60% of children at the time of T1D diagnosis are experiencing a life threatening condition called diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA).

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Research at the Barbara Davis Center for Diabetes—of thousands of children, over 25 years—has taught us that it is possible to prevent almost all DKA and hospitalizations for T1D, if:

• Parents are aware that the child is on track to develop diabetes

• Parents know how to monitor blood sugar levels and whom to call when their child develops early symptoms of diabetes

 

Symptoms of Childhood Diabetes include:

• Increased thirst

• Increased urination

• Weight loss

• Low energy