Summary
Researchers in the UK suggest that all children might be screened for type 1 diabetes using a simple finger-prick blood test. This test could identify the disease early and allow treatments to help control blood sugar levels sooner. The ELSA study has already checked thousands of children and aims to prevent serious complications from diabetes.
Key Facts
- A finger-prick blood test can screen for type 1 diabetes in children.
- 17,000 children aged 3 to 13 participated in the ELSA study in the UK.
- Early screening can help avoid diabetic ketoacidosis, a dangerous complication.
- Some children showed early signs of diabetes but did not need insulin yet.
- A drug called teplizumab is being tested to delay the onset of diabetes.
- The test checks for specific proteins (autoantibodies) that can indicate diabetes.
- A family history and certain environmental factors may increase diabetes risk.
- The study will expand to include children aged 2 to 17 in the next phase.
