Is Type I diabetes classified as an autoimmune disease?

Type I diabetes is classified as an autoimmune disease because it involves the immune system mistakenly attacking and destroying the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. This autoimmune response leads to an inability to produce sufficient insulin, which is critical for regulating blood sugar levels.

In individuals with Type I diabetes, genetic and environmental factors contribute to this autoimmune process. The destruction of beta cells typically occurs over time, resulting in hyperglycemia and the need for external insulin administration for blood sugar control. This characterization as an autoimmune disease distinguishes Type I diabetes from Type II diabetes, which is primarily associated with insulin resistance rather than an autoimmune attack on cell function.

This classification is important for understanding the underlying mechanisms of the disease, developing treatment strategies, and recognizing the role of the immune system in diabetes-related health issues.