Type 1 diabetes (T1D) has a profound human, emotional, and financial burden for those who live with it and their families—and that burden is rising rapidly. Right now, nearly nine million people worldwide live with T1D. In less than 20 years, this number is projected to more than double—but it's not a given. A timely diagnosis and barrier-free access to insulin and blood glucose testing strips, for instance, means millions more could be alive in 2040.

Which is why we asked the experts at Breakthrough T1D, our VB Gives Back partner, to share a primer on the disease. Here, they break things down, from the basics to the warning signs. So bookmark this page and spread the word—because knowledge is power, and you could help save a life.

First things first—what is T1D?

It's a chronic autoimmune disease in which a person’s pancreas stops producing insulin, a hormone people need to get energy from food. T1D strikes both children and adults, and its onset has nothing to do with diet or lifestyle. People with T1D depend on external insulin, via injection or infusion with an insulin pump, to survive.

What's the difference between T1D and type 2 diabetes (T2D)?

Diabetes is a disease that disrupts the body’s production of insulin, which regulates blood-sugar levels. In T1D, the body does not produce insulin. It is a chronic condition that, if not properly monitored, can be fatal. In T2D, the body does not use insulin properly. With the correct treatment and recommended lifestyle changes, many people with T2D can prevent or delay the onset of associated complications.

What is life with T1D like?

T1D requires management 24/7. Insulin doses must be administered many times per day and calculated carefully based on food intake, exercise, stress, illness, the amount of time insulin remains active, and other (often unpredictable) factors. People with T1D measure their blood-sugar levels through finger pricks at least six times a day (often much more), or by wearing a continuous glucose monitor (CGM). Even with a strict regimen, people with T1D may still experience dangerously high or low blood-sugar levels that can, in extreme cases, be life-threatening.

What are the warning signs of T1D?

Extreme thirst, frequent urination, increased appetite, unexplained weight loss, fruity odor on the breath, heavy or labored breathing, dry mouth, drowsiness or lethargy, and sudden vision changes. The warning signs often appear suddenly and sometimes require immediate medical attention.

Is early detection possible?

Yes! T1D can now be detected in its early stages—through autoantibody screening (a simple blood test)—before glucose is elevated and insulin is required. That means you could have more time to decide how to prepare for future medical needs and, in some cases, you may even be able to delay disease progression.

Who should get screened for T1D?

Individuals who have a first-degree relative with T1D are at an increased risk (up to 15 times) for developing the condition. However, 85% percent of T1D diagnoses occur in people with no known family history, which is why Breakthrough T1D has a long-term goal of global universal screening. Learn more about how to get screened here.

From now to the end of September, VB Gives Back commits to raising $250,000 for Breakthrough T1D through consumer donations, in-store give-back events, and $5 from every online order to elevate awareness and support for Type 1 diabetes research, advocacy and community engagement. Learn more here.

If you want to learn more about T1D and Breakthrough T1D’s mission you can visit their website at BreakthroughT1D.org.