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Type 1 diabetes shares many of the symptoms of Type 2, but only about 5% of people with diabetes have Type 1. However, about 85% to 90% of children and adolescents with diabetes have Type 1. The Wendy Novak Diabetes Institute provides state-of-the art, compassionate care, personalized treatment plans and family education for children with Type 1 diabetes.
Type 1 diabetes is a chronic disease that causes the pancreas to produce little or no insulin. Without the hormone insulin, sugar cannot turn into nutrients and help move those nutrients into the body’s cells to produce energy. Sugar then builds up in the bloodstream, causing hyperglycemia, or high blood sugar.
People with Type 1 diabetes must take insulin daily. If not treated, hyperglycemia (the excess sugar in the blood) can cause damage to the body and may even cause death.
Complications that may result from Type 1 diabetes include:
Type 1 diabetes symptoms often appear suddenly during infancy or childhood. Each child is different, so symptoms may appear differently. The most common symptoms include:
A Type 1 diagnosis can come with a lot of emotions and changes. When a child is diagnosed, it’s important to remember that the child, parent or caregiver didn’t do or not do anything to cause the condition. The Type 1 Club is a place for kids and teens with Type 1 diabetes and their families to turn for support, education and fellowship after a Type 1 diabetes diagnosis.
Our diabetes research team, along with the UofL School of Medicine, is dedicated to the study of Type 1 diabetes. The Wendy Novak Diabetes Institute participates in research programs, including:
Type 1 Diabetes TrialNet
Type 1 Diabetes TrialNet can help assess risk for developing Type 1 diabetes and look for answers to unsolved questions related to developing Type 1 diabetes — with the goal to find a cure. Diabetes-related antibodies can be found in the blood years before a diagnosis. A single blood sample can test for their presence. Those with positive antibodies may be eligible for prevention trials through TrialNet.
Individuals up to to age 45 who have a parent, child, brother or sister with Type 1 diabetes or Individuals up to age 20 who have a niece, nephew, aunt, uncle, grandparent, half-sibling or cousin with Type 1 diabetes can be screened.
If interested in participating, schedule an appointment by calling (502) 588-3430 or visit the TrialNet site for more information.T1D Exchange
People with Type 1 diabetes who are patients at the Wendy Novak Diabetes Institute may be eligible to participate. After signing a consent form to join the registry, the Wendy Novak Diabetes Institute will collect information that is recorded in your medical chart. Additionally, you will complete a questionnaire about your diabetes and current health. No extra visits, blood tests or procedures are needed to participate.
Let your diabetes care provider know if you are interested in participating.