The 3 Stages of Type 1 Diabetes
A Guide to Early Detection
There are 3 stages of type 1 diabetes. Most people get diagnosed in stage 3, which can be dangerous.
Early screening can detect stage 1 and stage 2. Early detection = the possibility to delay stage 3, learn about management options and build vital support.
The 3 Stages of Type 1 Diabetes
Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is an autoimmune disease that can be diagnosed at any age and currently has no cure. T1D develops when autoantibodies attack the healthy insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas needed to regulate blood sugar. This happens in 3 stages.
Presence of 2 or more autoantibodies. Stage 1 is the earliest stage of T1D. The immune system has begun attacking the insulin producing beta cells.
Blood Sugar
Normal
Symptoms
None
-
Normal blood sugar levels
-
No symptoms
-
Detectable via a simple autoantibody screening test
Beta cell destruction has progressed and blood sugars have begun to rise.
Blood Sugar
Slightly Elevated
Symptoms
None
-
Blood sugar levels begin to rise slightly
-
No symptoms
-
Measure beta cell function with a C-Peptide test
By this time, there is significant beta cell loss, blood sugars are dangerously high, and symptoms are present. Stage 3 can sometimes be mistaken for the flu or other illnesses.
Blood Sugar
Dangerously High
Symptoms
Frequent urination, excessive thirst, exhaustion, weight loss
-
Measure beta cell function with a C-Peptide test
-
Taking Insulin is now requird
-
Ignoring the signs of DKA can be life threatening if left untreated
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you prevent type 1 diabetes?
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease—there is currently no way to prevent its onset, cure or “reverse” it in any way.
What causes type 1 diabetes?
The exact cause of type 1 diabetes is still unknown. However, researchers believe it to be a combination of genetics plus environmental triggers—like a virus.
Do I need a family history to get T1D?
Surprisingly, almost 90% of people diagnosed with T1D have no family history of the disease.
How do you test for early-stage T1D?
Over 95% of people with new-onset T1D have detectible amounts of at least one islet autoantibody. A simple blood test can look for these autoantibodies
Tools for T1D Screening + Awareness
Understand the Basics of Type 1 Diabetes
Understand the three stages of T1D progression and how the immune system begins attacking insulin-producing beta cells long before symptoms appear.
How to Talk to Your Doctor About T1D Screening
Empower yourself for your next appointment with a guide that explains various screening options and provides the exact lab codes and diagnosis codes your doctor needs to order autoantibody tests.
Interpreting Your Results: You've Been Screened–Now What?
Navigate your screening results with a clear roadmap that explains what 0, 1, or 2+ detected autoantibodies mean for your future health.
Spread Awareness: Encourage Others to Get Screened
Share with others why early detection via a simple blood test is a "head start" that allows families to plan, prepare, and explore clinical trials that may slow disease progression.
When it Comes to T1D
Insulin & Medications
These Are All The Hormones That Diabetes Impacts
Advocacy
You Can Screen for Type 1 Diabetes Autoantibodies—When Will it Become Standard Childhood Health Care?
Health Care
How to Talk to Your Doctor About Type 1 Screening If You’ve Been Misdiagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes
Diabetes Types & Diseases
Screening Children for Type 1 Diabetes Autoantibodies
Advocacy
Inclusive Health: Creating Access to Type 1 Diabetes Screening in Underserved Communities
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