What hormone is primarily affected in Type 1 Diabetes?

In Type 1 Diabetes, the primary hormone affected is insulin. This condition arises when the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the beta cells in the pancreas that are responsible for producing insulin. Insulin is a crucial hormone for regulating blood glucose levels; it facilitates the uptake of glucose into the cells for energy or storage, thus lowering blood sugar levels.

Without sufficient insulin, individuals with Type 1 Diabetes cannot effectively manage their blood glucose, leading to elevated blood sugar levels, which can cause various health complications if not managed appropriately. This condition requires lifelong management typically through insulin therapy, making insulin the key hormone impacted in this type of diabetes.

Understanding the role of insulin is critical, as it helps illustrate why people with Type 1 Diabetes need insulin injections or pumps to maintain proper glucose levels and prevent the acute and chronic complications associated with uncontrolled diabetes.