Is type 1 diabetes hereditary?
Ninety percent of children who develop type 1 diabetes actually have no relative with the disease. Thanks to studies of families, researchers now can identify at birth when a baby carries some of the genes that indicate risk factors for type 1 diabetes. Certain genes called HLA markers are associated with diabetes risk. If a child is born with such markers, his or her risk of developing type 1 diabetes is about the same as if he or she had a sibling with type 1 diabetes, even though no other family member may have the disease. There are other genes that also create risk for juvenile diabetes that have not yet been identified.
90% of people who develop type 1 diabetes have no relative with the condition. However, genetic factors pre-dispose people to developing diabetes. Certain genes called HLA markers are associated with diabetes risk. If a child is born with such markers, his or her risk of developing type 1 diabetes is about the same as if he or she had a sibling with diabetes, even though no other family member may have the disease. However, not all those people who have these HLA markers develop diabetes, it is thought that some kind of trigger factor causes diabetes to develop.
Ninety percent of children who develop type 1 diabetes actually have no relative with the disease. Thanks to studies of families, researchers now can identify at birth when a baby carries some of the genes that indicate risk factors for type 1 diabetes. Certain genes called HLA markers are associated with diabetes risk. Where can I get a medical ID for my child? A number of companies make medical alert bracelets specifically marketed toward children with juvenile diabetes. You can find a good selection of these bracelets in the “Kids Corner” section of the Fifty 50 Pharmacy Web site. In addition, Children with Diabetes has a comprehensive listing of medical ID products.Although you are probably overwhelmed right now, JDRF can provide information and a support network to make this time easier for you and your family. We have a packet of information that is sent to the family of a child who has been recently diagnosed (e-mail or call 800-533-CURE). You can also contact your local JDRF ch
