What is the primary cause of type 1 diabetes?

The primary cause of type 1 diabetes is the autoimmune destruction of insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. In this condition, the body's immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys these beta cells, which are crucial for producing insulin. Without sufficient insulin, glucose is unable to enter the cells to be used for energy, leading to elevated blood glucose levels. This process distinguishes type 1 diabetes from type 2 diabetes, which primarily involves insulin resistance rather than immune-mediated destruction of beta cells. Understanding this fundamental mechanism is essential for managing type 1 diabetes and informing treatment strategies, such as insulin therapy, which is necessary for individuals with this condition to maintain blood glucose control.