Chronic Diseases

What Exactly Is Juvenile Diabetes?

There is currently no clear cause for juvenile diabetes, also known as type 1 diabetes.

Medically Inspected by: Loreta D. Dayco, MD, Edilberto B. Garcia, Jr., MD, and Maria Christina H. Ventura, MD

As of 2022, diabetes is the fourth leading cause of death in the Philippines, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA). Diabetes is a chronic disease wherein the body fails to produce or regulate use of insulin. Insulin is a hormone which transforms glucose into energy and it is produced by an organ called pancreas. In people with diabetes, the pancreas may either produce insufficient amounts of insulin or none at all.

There are generally two types of diabetes: type 1 and type 2. Type 1 diabetes, also known as juvenile diabetes or insulin-dependent diabetes, is believed to be caused by an autoimmune reaction that happens when the body mistakenly attacks itself and prevents it from producing insulin. Type 1 diabetes is most common among children, teens, and young adults.
Type 2 diabetes, on the other hand, occurs when the body does not produce enough insulin. It is typically diagnosed in adults but may also occur among children, especially ones who are obese or are not as physically active.

Both types equally need proper care and attention and may lead to serious health complications if left untreated. Some experts believe type 2 diabetes is milder in some cases compared to type 1. Additionally, unlike type 2 diabetes, there is currently no known way to prevent juvenile diabetes. Below, we discuss type 1 diabetes further, including its risk factors, symptoms, and management.

Risk Factors

There is no clear cause for type 1 diabetes, but family history may be a contributor. Type 1 diabetes can occur at any age, but it typically develops in children, teens, and young adults.

Symptoms

Type 1 diabetes may manifest as increased hunger and thirst, fatigue, blurry vision, increased cases of infections, frequent urination, mood changes, unusual weight loss, and unusual bedwetting for a child who has never done so before. Some of the symptoms may be similar with the warning signs of other health conditions. If you or your child experience any of these, consult a doctor for proper diagnosis.

Treatment and Management

People with type 1 diabetes rely on insulin shots to regulate their blood sugar levels. On top of this, they need to observe their food intake. Eating food rich in fiber and cutting back on unsaturated fats are two ways to maintain a healthy diet for those with type 1 diabetes. Additionally, a person with diabetes must avoid skipping meals as it may lead to lower blood sugar levels.

A healthy amount of physical activity—particularly aerobic exercises—can be beneficial to people with type 1 diabetes with their doctor’s approval. There are certain activities, however, that may require extra precaution for anyone with type 1 diabetes. Driving, for instance, may be dangerous if you suddenly suffer from low blood sugar levels. Make sure to keep your blood sugar at a safe level and get clearance from your doctor before proceeding with such activities.

General disclaimer

Your doctor will always be in the best position to give the appropriate medical advice for your condition. For suspected undesirable drug reaction, seek medical attention immediately and report to the FDA at www.fda.gov.ph and UNILAB, Inc. at 8-UNILAB-1 or productsafety@unilab.com.ph. Always buy your medicine from your trusted drugstores and retailers.

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