Type 1 Diabetes (cont.)

What Is the Difference Between Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes?

Type 1 diabetes (formerly called juvenile-onset or insulin-dependent diabetes) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body cannot produce insulin on its own, while type 2 diabetes (formerly called adult-onset or non-insulin-dependent diabetes) the body produces insulin but is unable to use it properly (a condition called insulin resistance).

In type 1 diabetes symptoms can be serious, and the disease starts in childhood or in young adulthood. In type 2 diabetes there may be no symptoms and the disease is usually diagnosed in adults age 35 and older, though children can also develop it.

In type 1 diabetes, low blood sugar episodes (hypoglycemia) occur frequently. In type 2 diabetes episodes of low blood sugar levels (hypoglycemia) are very rare, unless a person is taking insulin or other anti-diabetic medications.

Type 1 diabetes cannot be prevented. Type 2 diabetes is preventable with a healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet, maintaining a healthy weight, and getting regular exercise.