Understand how T1D develops
The information provided is for educational purposes only and does not construe medical advice. Screening decisions should always be made in consultation with your doctor.
Autoimmune T1D can happen to anyone – understand the risks
People from all backgrounds are at risk of developing autoimmune T1D, even in adulthood and regardless of family history.
Some autoimmune or viral conditions can increase the risk
Although we don’t know the exact cause of autoimmune T1D, there are certain conditions that can increase the risk.
Having an autoimmune condition or a history of these conditions in your family has been associated with autoimmune T1D. These autoimmune conditions may include:
Many types of viruses can also increase the risk, such as:
- Coxsackievirus B (CVB)
- Rotavirus
- Mumps
- Cytomegalovirus (CMV)
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When it comes to autoimmune T1D, age is only a number
Autoimmune T1D can happen at any age. Although many may think of it as a children’s disease, 70% of individuals with autoimmune T1D are diagnosed as adults. |
Autoimmune T1D risk assessment guide
Looking to better understand the risks?
Use this guide to understand the factors that can put you or a family member at risk of developing autoimmune T1D.
Detect autoimmune T1D early before symptoms appear
We’ve gathered the tools and resources you need to learn more about detecting autoimmune T1D. |
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Support networks and resources
Please visit the following websites for general information, resources and support.
Breakthrough T1D
Breakthrough T1D is an organization that advocates for autoimmune T1D research around the world and in Canada. They also offer support at any age or stage of life for people and families with autoimmune T1D.
TrialNet
TrialNet is an international network of leading academic institutions and healthcare professionals at the forefront of autoimmune T1D research. They offer risk screening for relatives of people with T1D at no cost and enrolment opportunities for innovative clinical studies.
Diabetes Canada
Diabetes Canada offers diabetes education, research, resources and services to the millions of Canadians affected by diabetes.
ConnecT1D Canada
ConnecT1D is an organization that works with people who are living with autoimmune T1D to influence research questions and reshape what it means to live with autoimmune T1D in Canada.
Type1Together
Type1Together aims to help bring Canadians living with or affected by autoimmune T1D together through connections, sharing and advocacy.
Diabetes Action Canada
Diabetes Action is a pan-Canadian research organization that focuses on bringing people, their caregivers and researchers together to identify and address health concerns of those living with autoimmune T1D.
The Banting Legacy
The Banting Legacy aims to fight diabetes with an emphasis on youth, by raising awareness and encouraging early detection.
Diabetes Hope Foundation
Diabetes Hope Foundation is a Canadian not-for-profit organization founded in 1999. The foundation’s mission is to provide education and resources to help youth with diabetes transition to a healthier tomorrow.
I Challenge Diabetes
I Challenge Diabetes places a focus on experiential education and creative problem solving. The organization provides a supportive community and learning environment that builds confidence and helps people overcome issues that arise from managing diabetes.
Connected in Motion
Connected in Motion is a community of people with autoimmune T1D who share a vision to create a culture of support and engagement in diabetes self-management through peer-based experiential diabetes education, sport and outdoor adventure.
FAQs
Here you'll find answers to the most common questions about autoimmune T1D. Explore the topics below.
The information provided is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Screening decisions should always be made in consultation with your doctor. |
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Early-stage autoimmune T1D, or pre-symptomatic diabetes, is the phase before noticeable or visible symptoms. During this stage, type 1 diabetes has started, but the body can still produce enough insulin to maintain relatively healthy blood sugar levels.
There are specific autoantibodies, that are a type of protein in the blood that appear with type 1 diabetes, even before symptoms begin.
An autoantibody test is a blood test that can detect type 1 diabetes early by identifying diabetes-related autoantibodies. Detecting two or more of these autoantibodies suggests the early stages of type 1 diabetes. The test is typically done with a finger prick or blood draw.
Anyone, at any age, can develop autoimmune T1D, regardless of diet or exercise choices. If a person in your family has T1D, you have an increased risk.
Having an autoimmune condition in your family history has been associated with autoimmune T1D.
Access our autoimmune T1D risk assessment guide for more information about the factors that can put people at risk of autoimmune T1D.
Screening before symptoms appear provides you with the opportunity to learn about signs and symptoms of autoimmune T1D, which can help you reduce your risk of DKA. It can also help you prepare for a potential diagnosis and give you the opportunity to participate in research studies.
Ask your family healthcare provider. They may be able to order screening for you in their clinic. Another option is to participate in screening through the TrialNet Research Group. They provide screening kits at no cost to individuals who have a relative with autoimmune T1D. For more information, visit trialnet.org.
Ask your family healthcare provider for the best screening option for you or your family member.
The detection of one or more autoantibodies doesn’t mean you or your family member have autoimmune T1D, but the risk of developing symptomatic autoimmune T1D exists. The test will be repeated to confirm the results, and your healthcare provider will monitor you closely for signs of progression and provide guidance on next steps.
If the screening does not detect any autoantibodies, it means the immediate risk of developing autoimmune T1D is low. However, your healthcare provider may recommend repeat screening in the future based on certain factors like your age and family history of autoimmune T1D.
