Better Health Channel
betterhealth.vic.gov.au Department of Health
betterhealth.vic.gov.au Department of Health
  • Diabetes is a condition where the glucose in the blood is too high.
  • Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition that attacks the cells of the pancreas that produce insulin, causing the pancreas to stop producing insulin.
  • Insulin is a hormone that is released from the pancreas when blood glucose levels begin to rise. Insulin allows glucose to pass from the blood into the cells of the muscles, where it is used for energy.
  • Type 1 diabetes usually develops in childhood, the teenage years, and in young adults, but can occur at any age.
  • Over time, high glucose levels can affect the nerves and blood vessels and damage many organs and tissues of the body.
  • Lifelong insulin therapy is needed by all people with type 1 diabetes.

Give feedback about this page

More information

Content disclaimer

Content on this website is provided for information purposes only. Information about a therapy, service, product or treatment does not in any way endorse or support such therapy, service, product or treatment and is not intended to replace advice from your doctor or other registered health professional. The information and materials contained on this website are not intended to constitute a comprehensive guide concerning all aspects of the therapy, product or treatment described on the website. All users are urged to always seek advice from a registered health care professional for diagnosis and answers to their medical questions and to ascertain whether the particular therapy, service, product or treatment described on the website is suitable in their circumstances. The State of Victoria and the Department of Health shall not bear any liability for reliance by any user on the materials contained on this website.

Reviewed on: 21-06-2022