Study explores risk factors for type 1 diabetes

In a study of risk factors that lead to type 1 diabetes, researchers will screen relatives of people with the disease this Saturday, December 4 at the UCSF Diabetes Center, 513 Parnassus Avenue. Screening involves a simple blood test, and enrolled participants will be closely monitored for signs of diabetes and may be offered the opportunity to participate in studies to block the disease process.

Scientists think a combination of genetic and environmental factors, such as diet or childhood infection, determine susceptibility to type 1 diabetes. At diagnosis, most people still have some insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. But in time, the immune system destroys more of these cells essential for controlling blood glucose.

UCSF is one of 18 medical centers in the U.S., Europe and Australia participating in the screening as part of Type 1 Diabetes TrialNet, a network dedicated to studying type 1 diabetes with an aim to prevent the disease and stop its progress in those newly diagnosed.

Type 1 Diabetes TrialNet is funded by the National Institutes of Health, the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation International and the American Diabetes Association.

For more information about the December 4 screening at UCSF, call (415) 514-3730. Information is also available on the UCSF Diabetes Center web site
at: Diabetes