Insulin is a hormone that controls the level of the sugar, glucose, in the bloodstream. Insulin reduces blood glucose levels by stimulating cells in the body to utilize glucose for energy. Insulin is produced by special cells, called beta cells, within the pancreas.

Type 1 diabetes is an inherited disease, caused by an abnormality in the immune system, which fights infection for the body. The immune system mistakenly attacks the beta cells in the pancreas, causing damage to the cells. The damaged cells are unable to produce insulin. A lack of insulin causes elevated blood glucose levels.

Factors in the environment that may lead to diabetes include:

• Viral infections
• Exposure to chemicals or toxins
• Stress