The Diabetes Prevention Trial-Type 1 is a nationwide study devoted to preventing or delaying Type 1 or insulin dependent diabetes. The Diabetes Center at Mercy is proud to participate in this important project. The study tests relatives of people with Type 1 diabetes to see if they are at risk for developing diabetes.

If you are eligible, we can test your blood for the presence of antibodies that can destroy insulin-producing cells. These antibodies can be detected years before Type 1 diabetes develops. If you have these antibodies, called islet cell antibodies (ICAs), you can participate in the Diabetes Prevention Trial.

The benefits of participating are:

• You will be closely monitored for signs of diabetes. If you develop diabetes you will receive treatment early, reducing your chances of developing serious complications later
• You will be part of important research which will help other people in your family, especially children

Eligibility: You should be tested if:

• you are age 45 or younger and have a brother, sister or child with Type 1 diabetes
• you are age 20 or younger and have a cousin, uncle, aunt, nephew, niece, grandparent or half-sibling with Type 1 diabetes

Your relative probably has Type 1 diabetes is he or she developed diabetes before age 40 or needs to take insulin injections.