What is Type 1 Diabetes?

Previously known as ‘Juvenile diabetes' because it usually starts in childhood or adolescence, type 1 diabetes is now known to affect all ages. It develops when a person's immune system attacks the cells that make insulin in the pancreas and damages them in such a way that they can no longer make insulin.

Insulin lets glucose into the body’s cells to be used for energy. Without insulin, glucose cannot get into the body’s cells and this results in high blood glucose levels and causes the symptoms and complications that can occur with type 1 diabetes. There is no known cure or prevention for type 1 diabetes at this time. It is the rarest form of diabetes, occurring in about 10-15% of all diagnoses of diabetes.

For more information go to our information sheets. Members of Healthy Living NT receive additional up to date information. To become a member please click here.

Diabetes in Schools program

This NDSS program helps schools, health professionals and families work together to support students manage type 1 diabetes, providing the education to help kids thrive at school. Use this site to access free training and education about type 1 diabetes.

For Under 25s
This provides information for 16 to 25 years olds living with diabetes and covers topics like school, work, travel, driving and general health resources and downloadable booklets.