Type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes are two distinct forms of diabetes. They have different causes, treatments, and outcomes.
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. As a result, the body can no longer produce enough insulin to regulate blood sugar levels. People with type 1 diabetes need to take insulin injections every day in order to survive.
Type 2 diabetes is a condition caused by insulin resistance, which is when the body’s cells become resistant to the effects of insulin. This means that the body can no longer process glucose properly, leading to an increase in blood sugar levels. Type 2 diabetes is typically treated with lifestyle modifications, such as diet and exercise, as well as medication.
The main difference between type 1 and type 2 diabetes is the cause. While type 1 diabetes is caused by an autoimmune response, type 2 diabetes is caused by insulin resistance. Additionally, type 1 diabetes requires insulin injections for survival, while type 2 diabetes can often be managed through lifestyle modifications and medication.