## Background [Diabetes](https://ul.orna.me/KOge/librarydisease?id=43) mellitus is a disease associated with impaired production of the hormone insulin. The development of type 1 diabetes is caused by disruption of the beta cells of the pancreas, which leads to absolute [insulin](https://ul.orna.me/KOge/librarybiomarker?id=67) deficiency. This results in chronic hyperglycemia (elevated blood [glucose](https://ul.orna.me/KOge/librarybiomarker?id=110) levels). The basis of type 2 diabetes is insulin resistance, which is a decrease in the sensitivity to insulin of insulin-dependent tissues of the body, primarily muscle, and fat with subsequent failure of glucose metabolism and its flow to these tissues. This leads to relative insulin deficiency (normal amount of insulin, which is not enough for normal digestion of glucose). More than 90 % of all cases of diabetes mellitus in children and adolescents are type 1. The peak of the primary diagnosis is from 8–20 years old. ## Risk group There are many theories about the risk factors for diabetes. ===To date, only genetic predisposition, as well as acute and chronic [pancreatitis](https://ul.orna.me/KOge/librarydisease?id=93) (which over time leads to the destruction of pancreatic tissue), have shown to be linked to diabetes. If the child or family has a history of [autoimmune diseases](https://ul.orna.me/KOge/librarydisease?id=30) (this can include issues of the thyroid, lupus, vitiligo, etc.), there is a slightly higher chance that the child may have type 1 diabetes. ## Symptoms to look for Type 1 diabetes often show up in children with the following symptoms: - Unquenchable thirst — the child drinks lots of ice water - Frequent and abundant urination - Increased appetite - Rapid weight loss, even though the child eats a lot - Muscle weakness, lethargy - Decreased activity, sleepiness, attention issues - Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain Type 2 diabetes in its initial stages often does not show itself at all or begins with metabolic disorders and obesity. The child might complain of decreased vision or acne, which during puberty may look like normal blackheads all over the body. Whatever type of diabetes a child has, medical attention should be sought after as soon as possible. This will avoid dangerous side effects and complications.