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The risk for type 1 diabetes might be higher than you think

The risk for type 1 diabetes might be higher than you think The risk for type 1 diabetes might be higher than you think
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Type 1 diabetes
can happen to anyone

Anyone can develop autoimmune type 1 diabetes (T1D), no matter their age, family history, or lifestyle choices. But if just 1 family member has T1D, your risk multiplies by up to 15X.

UP TO90%

of people diagnosed have NO FAMILY HISTORY

UP TO15X

the risk if EVEN 1 family member has T1D

Certain autoimmune or viral conditions can also increase your risk

The exact cause of type 1 diabetes isn’t known—and that means many of the risk factors are unknown too. But certain other conditions can increase your risk:

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The exact cause of type 1 diabetes isn’t known—and that means many of the risk factors are unknown too. But certain other conditions can increase your risk:

Having an autoimmune condition or a history of autoimmune conditions in your family could put you or your loved one at higher risk. These autoimmune conditions include:

  • celiac disease
  • Hashimoto's disease

Some common viruses could also increase the risk. These include common illnesses that you may have heard of, like:

  • coxsackievirus B
  • rotavirus (which often causes diarrhea)
  • mumps
  • a virus related to herpes called cytomegalovirus (CMV)
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TYPE 1 DIABETES
CAN HAPPEN AT
ANY AGE
even as an adult

Some people think of type 1 diabetes as a children’s disease—more likely to affect kids. But over half the people who are newly diagnosed with type 1 diabetes get diagnosed as adults. That means that you or a loved one could still be at risk for T1D—at any age.

Type 1 Risk Quiz

This quiz is intended for people age 18 years and older.

Could you or a loved one be at risk?

The risk of autoimmune type 1 diabetes is real—so take this easy quiz to help find out if you or a loved one might be at risk. Then, make the move to talk to a doctor about screening.

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See how and why to get screened Sign up for helpful information

This information is based on the answers that you provided and our current understanding of the risk of developing type 1. The actual risk may be higher or lower based on a number of different factors.

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If you think you or your loved one might be at risk for type 1 diabetes, talk to your doctor and screen it like you mean it.

Learn why early screening can be so important