Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. It requires lifelong insulin therapy.

About 1.6 million Americans have type 1 diabetes, including 187,000 children(CDC)

Key Insight

T1D isn't just about insulin. Screen annually for thyroid disease - 10-25% of T1D patients develop it.

1Primary Biomarkers

Core diagnostic markers for type 1 diabetes. These are used to diagnose and monitor your condition.

Hemoglobin A1c

Measures average blood sugar over 2-3 months. Critical for T1D management.

Goal typically below 7%, individualized based on hypoglycemia risk

Glucose

Daily monitoring essential for insulin dosing. More variable in T1D than T2D.

Fasting 80-130 mg/dL, post-meal below 180 mg/dL

2Related Biomarkers

Type 1 Diabetes affects multiple body systems. Monitor these to catch complications early.

Thyroid (Autoimmune Link)

10-25% of T1D patients develop autoimmune thyroiditis. Both share genetic risk factors.

TSH

Screen annually for thyroid dysfunction.

0.4-4.0 mIU/L

Free T4

Confirms hypothyroidism if TSH elevated.

0.8-1.8 ng/dL

Anti-TPO

Antibodies indicate Hashimoto's - present before TSH changes.

Kidney Function

Long-term T1D complications include nephropathy. Monitor annually.

eGFR

Kidney filtration rate.

Above 90 (normal)

Microalbumin

Early kidney damage marker.

Below 30 mg/g

Cardiovascular

T1D increases cardiovascular risk, especially with long disease duration

LDL Cholesterol

Target below 100 mg/dL

Below 100 mg/dL

HDL Cholesterol

Protective cholesterol

Above 40 (men), 50 (women)

3The Holistic View

Type 1 diabetes is part of a family of autoimmune conditions. If you have T1D, you're at higher risk for thyroid disease, celiac disease, and other autoimmune conditions. Annual screening for thyroid function is recommended.

4Connected Conditions

Understanding how type 1 diabetes connects to other conditions helps you see the bigger picture.

Track in LabLi

When you select Type 1 Diabetes as your health focus, these categories are prioritized in your dashboard:

GlucoseThyroidKidneyLipids

Medical References

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This guide is for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.