Throughout the world 10 to 15 percent of all cases of persons diagnosed with diabetes are said to have Type 1 diabetes, once known as juvenile diabetes or insulin-dependent diabetes.
Type 1 diabetes is a chronic condition in which the pancreas produces little or no insulin, a hormone needed to allow sugar or glucose to enter cells to produce energy.
According to the local Health Ministry, there are just under 700 cases of persons living with diabetes here in St. Vincent and the Grenadines and a number of those cases includes children, some within the primary school system who have Type 1 diabetes.
WEFM News interviewed Rosita King, president of the SVG Diabetes and Hypertension Association who outlined several facts about this Chronic illness, that can prove fatal if not properly managed.
Different factors, including genetics and some viruses, may contribute to type 1 diabetes. Although type 1 diabetes usually appears during childhood or adolescence, it can develop in adults.
Rosita King, president of the SVG Diabetes and Hypertension Association says despite active research, the exact cause of type 1 diabetes is not known and it has no cure. She outlined several symptoms of this illness.
Mrs. King said that treatment focuses on managing blood sugar levels with insulin, diet and lifestyle to prevent complications.
Mrs. King further noted that persons with Type 1 diabetes also need to exercise.
A team work approach is needed to care for young ones with Type 1 diabetes, hence family members should closely monitor such ones and help them to properly manage their illness, and as such continue to enjoy healthy lifestyles.
