Diabetes is one of the most common chronic childhood diseases. In the United States about 125,000 youth (younger than age 19) have diabetes and about 13,000 new cases are found each year. Most children with diabetes go to school or day care and need trained staff to provide a safe environment.

Type 1 diabetes is an immune system disease where the body makes little or no insulin. It usually begins in childhood or teens. Children with type 1 diabetes need daily insulin shots to help their bodies use food. Type 1 diabetes often runs in families, and whites have a higher rate of type 1 diabetes than other racial groups.
Warning Signs of Type 1 Diabetes (These symptoms may come on suddenly):

- Extreme thirst
- Frequent urination
- Drowsiness, lethargy
- Sudden vision changes
- Increased appetite
- Sudden weight loss
- Fruity, sweet, or wine-like odor or breath
- Heavy, labored breathing
- Stupor, unconsciousness