Could Your Child Be at Risk for Type 1 Diabetes?

Here's why type 1 diabetes screening matters:

If you're a parent living with type 1 diabetes, you already know the strength it takes to manage the condition. What you might not know is that your child faces a higher risk, too.

In fact, children with a family member who has type 1 diabetes are about 15 times more likely to develop it than those without. That’s why many parents are now choosing to screen their children for type 1 diabetes autoantibodies — even before symptoms appear

This video covers why this simple test can make a big difference:

Early Detection of Type 1 Diabetes Can Save Lives

Detecting type 1 diabetes early — before blood sugars rise or symptoms appear — can lower the risk of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a serious condition that often requires hospitalization.

Screening can identify the disease in its early stages, giving your family the chance to take action before a medical emergency occurs.

With early knowledge, you can start monitoring blood sugar and ketones and work with your doctor to build a plan that protects your child’s health.

You Might Be Able to Delay the Disease

If your child tests positive for markers of type 1 diabetes, there may be steps you can take to delay the onset.

Research shows that a specific medication can delay the start of type 1 diabetes by an average of two years. And more options may become available as research advances.

Screening Is Simple and Accessible

It involves a blood test that looks for autoantibodies linked to type 1 diabetes — early markers that appear before symptoms. Testing can be done at a lab or with a convenient finger prick test at home.

Whether the results show a risk or not, knowing can be powerful. Being informed can help your family plan, accept, and move forward with strength and peace of mind.

Talk to your doctor and check out our Type 1 Diabetes group resources to see if screening is right for you and your child.