What's the Difference Between Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes?

Question

LAXMINARAYAN MOHANTY · Accepted Answer

Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes are conditions that affect how the body regulates blood sugar, but they differ in their causes and management. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease where the immune system mistakenly attacks the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. This leads to little to no insulin production, requiring individuals to rely on daily insulin injections or an insulin pump for survival. It often develops in childhood or adolescence, though it can occur at any age.

Type 2 diabetes is primarily linked to insulin resistance when the body's cells do not respond properly to insulin, or the pancreas doesn't produce enough insulin to meet the body's needs. Type 2 diabetes is typically associated with lifestyle factors like poor diet, lack of exercise, and obesity, though genetic factors also play a significant role. Management usually involves lifestyle changes, oral medications, and sometimes insulin therapy. While Type 1 diabetes is not preventable, the risk of Type 2 diabetes can often be reduced or managed through healthy living.