Understanding the Differences Between Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes

For many years, diabetes has been the cause of much confusion. The disease that may affect as many as 96 million Nigerians, has many variants, but the most common are type 1 and type 2 diabetes.

This in-depth exploration sheds light into the key differences between type 1 and type 2 diabetes, and how to get the help you need.

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a metabolic disorder characterized by high blood glucose levels due to the body’s inability to produce or effectively use insulin. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that helps glucose enter cells, where it is used for energy. When insulin production or function is impaired, glucose accumulates in the bloodstream, leading to various health complications.

Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes, previously known as juvenile diabetes or insulin-dependent diabetes, is an autoimmune condition. It occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. As a result, the body produces little to no insulin.

What are the causes of type 1 diabetes?

The exact cause of Type 1 diabetes is unknown, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Certain viruses, such as enteroviruses, have been implicated as potential triggers. Unlike Type 2 diabetes, lifestyle factors such as diet and physical activity do not play a role in the development of Type 1 diabetes.

Prevalence of Type 1 diabetes

Type 1 diabetes accounts for about 5-10% of all diabetes cases. According to International Diabetes Federation (IDF), as of 2021, approximately 1.2 million children and adolescents under the age of 20 were living with Type 1 diabetes globally.

Symptoms of Type 1 diabetes

The onset of Type 1 diabetes is usually sudden and can include symptoms such as:

• Frequent urination
• Excessive thirst
• Extreme hunger
• Unintended weight loss
• Fatigue
• Blurred vision
• Slow-healing sores

How to manage Type 1 diabetes

Managing Type 1 diabetes requires lifelong insulin therapy. People with Type 1 diabetes must regularly monitor their blood glucose levels and administer insulin through injections or an insulin pump. Additionally, they need to follow a balanced diet, engage in regular physical activity, and monitor for potential complications.

Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes, formerly known as adult-onset diabetes or non-insulin-dependent diabetes, is characterized by insulin resistance. This means that the body does not use insulin effectively. Over time, the pancreas cannot produce enough insulin to maintain normal blood glucose levels.

Causes of Type 2 diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is influenced by a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors. Key risk factors include:

• Obesity: Excess body fat, particularly around the abdomen, increases the risk of insulin resistance.
• Physical Inactivity: Lack of regular exercise contributes to obesity and insulin resistance.
• Diet: High consumption of sugary and processed foods can lead to weight gain and insulin resistance.
• Age: The risk of Type 2 diabetes increases with age, particularly after 45.
• Family History: Having a close relative with Type 2 diabetes increases the risk.
• Ethnicity: Certain ethnic groups, including African Americans, Hispanics, Native Americans, and Asians, are at higher risk.

Prevalence of Type 2 diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes, accounting for about 90-95% of all diabetes cases. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 422 million people worldwide have diabetes, with the majority being Type 2 diabetes cases.

Symptoms of Type 2 diabetes

The symptoms of Type 2 diabetes often develop gradually and may include:

• Increased thirst and urination
• Increased hunger
• Fatigue
• Blurred vision
• Slow-healing sores
• Frequent infections
• Areas of darkened skin, usually in the armpits and neck

How to manage Type 2 diabetes

Managing Type 2 diabetes involves lifestyle changes and, in some cases, medication. Key management strategies include:

• Diet: Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins while limiting sugar and refined carbohydrates.
• Exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity to help manage weight and improve insulin sensitivity.
• Medication: Oral medications, and in some cases, insulin therapy, may be prescribed to help control blood glucose levels.
• Monitoring: Regular blood glucose monitoring is essential to ensure levels remain within the target range.

Key Differences Between Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes

1.   Age of Onset

Type 1 diabetes is typically diagnosed in children, adolescents, and young adults, although it can occur at any age. Type 2 diabetes is more commonly diagnosed in adults over the age of 45, but it is increasingly being diagnosed in younger individuals, including children and adolescents, due to rising obesity rates.

2.   Insulin Dependency

People with Type 1 diabetes are entirely dependent on insulin therapy for survival, as their bodies produce little to no insulin. In contrast, individuals with Type 2 diabetes may manage their condition with lifestyle changes and oral medications for many years before requiring insulin therapy.

3.   Causes and Risk Factors

Type 1 diabetes is primarily caused by an autoimmune response, with no known lifestyle-related risk factors. Type 2 diabetes, on the other hand, is strongly linked to lifestyle factors such as obesity, poor diet, and physical inactivity, in addition to genetic predisposition.

4.   Prevalence

Type 2 diabetes is far more common than Type 1 diabetes, accounting for the majority of diabetes cases worldwide. This difference in prevalence highlights the significant public health impact of Type 2 diabetes, particularly in relation to lifestyle and environmental factors.

Conclusion

Understanding the differences between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes is crucial for effective management and prevention. While both types of diabetes result in high blood glucose levels, their causes, risk factors, and management strategies differ significantly. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition requiring lifelong insulin therapy, whereas Type 2 diabetes is often linked to lifestyle factors and can be managed through diet, exercise, and medication.

Raising awareness about these differences can help individuals take proactive steps to manage their health and reduce the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. By adopting a healthy lifestyle and staying informed, we can work towards reducing the global burden of diabetes and improving the quality of life for those affected by this chronic condition.

Would you like to speak to a specialist? Book a physical or virtual consultation here.