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Life Expectancy of Children With Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes is a chronic condition where the body does not make insulin and is unable to use blood sugar for energy. The life expectancy for Type 1 diabetics depends on lifestyle, quality of care and how well the diabetic controls his blood sugar levels.

  1. General Life Expectancy

    • According to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, life expectancy is generally shortened by seven to 10 years. Medical advances are closing the life-expectancy gap between diabetics and non-diabetics.

    Diabetic Complications

    • Diabetics are prone to complications, which may shorten life expectancy. Hypertension, heart disease and kidney failure are both common complications of diabetes.

    Lifestyle Factors

    • Diet and exercise can both improve life expectancy by maintaining a healthy body weight and controlling blood sugar. Encourage your child to get regular exercise: Exercise also helps prevent diabetic complications like heart disease and hypertension.

    Medication and Treatment Factors

    • Type 1 diabetics control their blood sugar levels with insulin and regular blood sugar readings. Diabetics who follow a regular regimen have better control of their blood sugar and lower risk of complications.

    Overall Prognosis

    • With proper care and a healthy lifestyle, children with diabetes can live long and healthy lives.

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