Which of the following is true about Type 1 diabetes?

Type 1 diabetes is primarily characterized as an autoimmune disease where the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. This destruction leads to a significant or complete deficiency of insulin, which is crucial for managing blood glucose levels. Consequently, individuals with Type 1 diabetes require lifelong insulin therapy to control their blood sugar levels appropriately.

In contrast to Type 2 diabetes, which is often associated with lifestyle factors and obesity, Type 1 is typically diagnosed in children or young adults and is not linked to lifestyle choices or body weight. This distinction is vital in understanding the nature of the disease and its management.