Final answer:
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition that destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, requiring those affected to take insulin injections for life. It is most often diagnosed in younger individuals and is managed by monitoring blood glucose levels and administering insulin. Type 2 diabetes, which is more common, is usually linked to lifestyle factors and can often be managed with lifestyle changes and medication.
Step-by-step explanation:
Type 1 diabetes is a chronic autoimmune disorder where the immune system mistakenly attacks the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. This results in the body not producing insulin, which is essential for regulating blood glucose levels. Individuals with type 1 diabetes require insulin injections to manage their condition because their pancreas cannot produce insulin naturally. It is important to note that type 1 diabetes can occur at any age but is most commonly diagnosed in children and adolescents.
Contrasting with type 1, type 2 diabetes typically occurs in adults and is often related to lifestyle factors such as obesity, poor diet, and inactivity. While it too can lead to high blood glucose levels, in type 2 diabetes, the body cells become resistant to insulin rather than a lack of insulin being produced.
Diabetes, in general, is diagnosed with lab tests that reveal high blood glucose levels (hyperglycemia). The management of diabetes varies depending on whether it is type 1 or type 2. While lifestyle changes can greatly impact the management of type 2 diabetes, those with type 1 are dependent on lifelong insulin therapy.