Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes usually occurs in children and young adults. It can occur in babies and older adults.

In Type 1 diabetes, the body does not produce any insulin. Insulin is a hormone that controls blood sugar (glucose) levels. If there is no insulin, the blood sugar levels rise and become very high. Insulin is needed to move the sugar from the blood into the cells of the body so they can use it for energy.

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease where the body attacks its own cells in the pancreas that make insulin. The exact reason for this is not fully understood. Your are at a slightly increased risk of developing Type 1 diabetes if you have another family member who has Type 1 diabetes.

People with Type 1 diabetes need to have insulin injections as well as a healthy diet to control the glucose levels.

WHERE TO GET HELP

The first point of contact for screening for diabetes mellitus in Botswana will be the local clinics or private surgeries. In Botswana, there is a clinic within the 5 km radius in towns, cities and villages. Specialized diabetes care can be accessed through our primary and district hospitals around Botswana.There is specialized clinic in children with diabetes and other hormonal disorders at Princess Marina Hospital. 

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