In type 1 diabetes, the predominant physiological issue is:

The predominant physiological issue in type 1 diabetes is a lack of insulin production. In this condition, the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas, leading to a significant reduction or complete absence of insulin. Insulin is crucial for enabling glucose to enter cells from the bloodstream, where it can be used for energy or stored. Without adequate insulin, glucose levels in the blood increase (hyperglycemia), causing various metabolic disturbances.

Type 1 diabetes is characterized by this absolute deficiency of insulin, which distinguishes it from type 2 diabetes, where insulin resistance and relative insulin deficiency are more prominent. Understanding the underlying mechanism of type 1 diabetes is essential for effective management, as patients require exogenous insulin to control blood glucose levels and prevent complications associated with prolonged hyperglycemia.