Preventing type 1 diabetes

Currently there is no way to prevent type 1 diabetes, but ongoing studies are exploring ways to prevent diabetes in those who are most likely to develop it. People who have a parent, brother, or sister with type 1 diabetes and are willing to participate in one of these studies should talk with their health professional. They may want to be tested for islet cell antibodies, because if they have these antibodies, they are more likely to get diabetes.

Vaccines have not been found to contribute to the development of type 1 diabetes.⁶ Children who are at risk for developing diabetes still need to get the recommended immunizations. See the childhood immunizations schedule recommended by the U.S. Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and the American Academy of Family Physicians.

Preventing diabetes complications

People with type 1 diabetes can help prevent or delay the development of complications such as eye, kidney, heart, blood vessel, and nerve diseases by keeping their blood sugar near normal levels. They also need regular medical checkups to detect early signs of complications. If complications are treated early, the damage may be stopped, slowed, or possibly reversed.

People who have other health problems along with diabetes, such as high blood pressure or high cholesterol, need to treat those conditions. Also, not smoking can reduce the risk of complications. Having other health problems can increase the risk for complications from diabetes.

Preventing flu and pneumococcal disease

People who have diabetes should have a flu shot every year and a pneumococcal vaccine. Usually, people need only one dose of the pneumococcal vaccine. But doctors sometimes recommend a second dose for some people, especially if they have a long-term disease. Talk with your doctor about whether you need a second dose. The pneumococcal vaccine helps prevent infections caused by pneumococcal bacteria. People with diabetes, especially those who have heart or kidney disease, are at high risk for complications, hospitalization, and death from flu and pneumococcal disease.⁷