What is Early Detection?

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Type 1 diabetes can begin developing months or even years before symptoms appear. Early detection is a simple blood  test (or finger poke) that is used to look for markers called islet autoantibodies. These can signal that the immune system has started attacking the insulin-producing cells of the pancreas.  This may indicate an increased likelihood of developing T1D in the future.

 

Knowing this information allows individuals and families to:

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• Better understand their risk

• Receive education from healthcare professionals

• Monitor for changes over time

• Recognize symptoms early if they develop

• Knowledge is power. Early detection provides information, not a diagnosis.

 

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Why Does Early Detection Matter?

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Early awareness can make a significant difference.

 

When people understand their risk, they have more time to prepare, ask questions, and work with their healthcare team.

 

Potential benefits include:

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• Reducing the likelihood of a DKA emergency at diagnosis

• More time for education and planning

• Ongoing monitoring by healthcare providers

• Greater confidence and peace of mind

• Early detection can lead to better blood sugar management and fewer complications

• Possible option for treatment that may delay the onset of symptomatic T1D

• T1D prevention trials may be available to those who screen positive

 

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Who Should Learn About Early Detection?

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While having a close family member with T1D increases your risk, anyone can develop type 1 diabetes. Screening can identify risk before symptoms appear, providing crucial time for education, monitoring and preparation.

 

Early detection may be beneficial for:

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• Individuals with a family history of T1D

• Anyone with personal or family history of other autoimmune diseases

• Everyone – Even without a family history (90% of people diagnosed with T1D do not have a family history)

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Learning about screening does not mean someone is expected to develop type 1 diabetes. It simply provides more information about their health.

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Frequently Asked Questions

 

​​Does early detection mean I have type 1 diabetes?

 

Screening identifies whether someone may have an increased risk of developing symptomatic (stage 3) type 1 diabetes.

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Is screening only for children?

 

No. Type 1 diabetes can develop at any age. While many people associate it with childhood, adults can also develop T1D and may benefit from learning about screening.

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I don't have a family history. Should I still learn about screening?

 

Yes. Although family history increases risk, many people diagnosed with type 1 diabetes have no family history. Learning about early detection can help anyone better understand their health.

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What happens if my screening shows an increased risk?

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A healthcare professional will discuss the results with you, explain what they mean, and recommend appropriate follow-up care or monitoring if needed.​​​

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What are the screening options?

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A simple blood test (or finger poke) is used to look for T1D-related autoantibodies.  Currently blood tests can be completed through:

 

• Uncover T1D (see Comprehensive 4-AAb Testing document in Resources below)

• TrialNet (see Comprehensive 4-AAb Testing document in Resources below)

• Local lab (Note: Only 3 of 4-AAb’s tested).  

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How The Best Centre Can Help

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At The Charles H. Best Diabetes Centre, we believe that education empowers families.

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​Whether you're learning about type 1 diabetes for the first time or looking to better understand early detection, our team is here to answer your questions and connect you with trusted resources.

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Resources​

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To learn more about Early Detection: