Life expectancy refers to the average number of years people can live. However, due to the complexity of their situation, people with chronic conditions often fear a lower life expectancy. Does this apply to diabetes as well? And which type of diabetes is linked more closely with low life expectancy? This blog explores type 1 diabetes life expectancy in detail along with some ways it can be improved.
Type 1 Diabetes: How is it Different from Type 2 Diabetes?
To be precise, diabetes is divided into two types, depending on the disease’s mechanism. In type 1 diabetes, the human body undergoes an autoimmune reaction where the body’s immune system mistakenly destroys the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. Consequently, the body faces insulin deprivation.
Eventually, when there is not enough insulin to convert glucose into energy, the body develops uncontrolled blood sugar levels. This excess glucose buildup can trigger greater complications such as kidney disorders and hypertension, affecting type 1 diabetes life expectancy. People with this type of diabetes must rely on an external supply of insulin throughout their lives,
On the contrary, type 2 diabetes begins when the cells stop responding to insulin. Statistically, it is the more common type, accounting for 90% of all diabetes cases. While type 1 requires insulin shots, type 2 is initially controlled with lifestyle modifications. More severe cases require medicines that support insulin acceptance and control blood glucose.
The Impact of Type 1 Diabetes on Life Expectancy
Recent studies show that people with type 1 diabetes have a significantly lower life expectancy compared to healthy individuals. Alarmingly, type 1 diabetes makes people live 10 to 12 years less than other people. Why is this the case? Below, we explore the factors that affect type 1 diabetes life expectancy.
Higher risk of complex conditions:
One of the main factors that contribute to lower life expectancy in diabetic people is the elevated risk of long-term chronic problems. Type 1 diabetes affects the body’s ability to process glucose, leading to consistently high blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia). Over time, poor blood sugar control can lead to a host of complications like hypercholesterolemia and hypertriglyceridemia. Other conditions that may develop because of unassisted type 1 diabetes include:
Cardiovascular disorders
Due to abnormal glucose accumulation in the body, diabetic people may develop clogged arteries or damaged nerves. Therefore, people with type 1 diabetes are at a higher risk of developing cardiovascular conditions like stroke and hypertension. This is a major contributor to type 1 diabetes life expectancy.
Also Read: Venous Hypertension: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment
Diabetic kidney disease
Kidney damage from diabetes happens when high blood sugar levels over time take a toll on the kidneys’ blood vessels. These vessels, responsible for filtering waste from the blood, become weak and leaky. Subsequently, there are more toxins in the body and the kidneys struggle to keep up with the load. With time, the extreme strain on the kidneys may lead to failure. However, with proper management of diabetes, patients can avoid this.
Nerve damage
Type 1 diabetes life expectancy remains at stake due to a higher risk of nerve damage in diabetes patients. Diabetes can make it difficult to detect wounds, infections, or ulcers since it can cause numbness and lack of sensation in the limbs.
Vision problems
When blood glucose levels stay high for long periods, they can damage the delicate blood vessels in the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. This damage leads to diabetic retinopathy. Over time, new, abnormal blood vessels form, and vision can deteriorate. If left untreated, this can result in permanent vision loss.
Greater risk of infections
Another reason why type 1 diabetes life expectancy is below average is due to the higher possibility of infections. Uncontrolled blood sugar can impair the immune system, leaving individuals more susceptible to infections.
The Key to Improved Life Expectancy: Tips to Manage Type 1 Diabetes Effectively
Living with type 1 diabetes requires persistent commitment, daily efforts, and regular monitoring. Gradually, with continuous hard work, people can improve type 1 diabetes life expectancy. Following are some key steps that help manage diabetes symptoms, lowering the chances of complexities:
Regular and continuous monitoring:
Blood sugar control is the foundation of diabetes management. Hence, regularly monitoring your blood glucose and adjusting your insulin dosage accordingly is crucial. Use a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) for real-time feedback and staying on top of fluctuations. Moreover, aim to keep your blood sugar levels as close to the target range as possible. This way, you can prevent long-term damage to vital organs, leading to a better type 1 diabetes life expectancy.
Insulin therapy:
Since people with type 1 diabetes lack natural insulin, they need a well-regulated artificial supply. Also, it must be induced in the right amounts at the right time according to the sugar reading. Earlier, type 1 diabetes was equivalent to a death sentence. However, with trials and research, insulin therapies have improved diabetes management.
Lifestyle factors:
Unfortunately, many people with type 1 diabetes struggle with lifestyle choices, which can lead to complications and reduce type 1 diabetes life expectancy. Healthy blood sugar maintenance requires a balanced diet and regular workouts. Focus on a diet rich in fiber, lean proteins, and whole grains, while limiting processed sugars and refined carbs. Furthermore, make sure your body always stays hydrated and well-rested.
Stress management:
Stress can wreak havoc on blood sugar levels. Hence, finding ways to relax is essential. Practice mindfulness, meditate, or try yoga. Managing Type 1 diabetes isn’t something you have to do alone. Surround yourself with a supportive network—whether it’s family, friends, or clinical trial groups. Reducing stress helps keep your mind and body in balance, improving both your mental health and blood sugar control.
Type 1 Diabetes and Beyond: How to Live Your Best Life in the Long Run
While the type 1 diabetes life expectancy may be shorter than that of the general population, it’s important to remember that this is not a fixed fate. By managing blood sugar levels, staying on top of medical care, and utilizing the latest advancements in technology, many people with Type 1 diabetes can live long and healthy lives.
As medical research progresses, the hope is that future advancements will improve outcomes for those with this condition. More research into finding a cure, improving insulin therapies, and making management easier could help reduce the gap in life expectancy between those with and without Type 1 diabetes.
