Diabetes Center
Type 1 Diabetes Prevention Clinic

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Proactive Care for a Healthier Future

Imagine being able to act before type 1 diabetes (T1D) fully develops. That’s exactly what we offer at the Type 1 Diabetes Prevention Clinic. Whether you’re looking to be screened for T1D or have already tested positive for early-stage markers, our specialized team is here to help you monitor, manage, and even delay the progression of the disease.

What Is Pre-Clinical Type 1 Diabetes?

Pre-clinical T1D is the early, symptom-free stage of type 1 diabetes. During this phase, autoantibodies—proteins that signal an autoimmune response—are present in your blood. Although you may still have normal or slightly abnormal blood glucose levels, the presence of these autoantibodies indicates a higher risk of eventually developing full-blown T1D.

Why does it matter?

  • Early detection = better outcomes: Monitoring pre-clinical T1D helps us catch disease progression before symptoms occur, reducing the risk of dangerous complications like diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA).
  • Treatment opportunities: New therapies, such as Teplizumab, may delay the onset of stage 3 T1D, giving you or your child more years without insulin dependence.

The Three Stages of Type 1 Diabetes

We use a staged model to classify pre-clinical and clinical T1D, helping us determine the right course of action:

Stage 1

2 or more autoantibodies

Normal blood glucose:

  • Fasting <100 mg/dL
  • Post-meal <140 mg/dL
  • A1c: 4.5–5.6%

No symptoms

Stage 2

2 or more autoantibodies

Abnormal blood glucose:

  • Fasting 100–125 mg/dL
  • Post-meal 140–199 mg/dL
  • A1c: 5.7–6.4%

No symptoms

Stage 3 - Overt T1D

2 or more autoantibodies

High blood glucose:

  • Fasting >125 mg/dL
  • Post-meal >200 mg/dL
  • A1c: ≥6.5%

Symptoms such as thirst, frequent urination, weight loss

What Happens at Type 1 Prevention Clinic Visits?

Our clinic offers expert, proactive care for children and adolescents with pre-clinical or early-stage T1D.

Our goals are to:

Increase screening for T1D for individuals that are at higher risk- those with a parent or sibling with T1D.

Educate families to help them be better prepared to recognize the symptoms of stage 3 T1D to prevent Diabetic Ketoacidosis.

Offer treatment to eligible patients to delay the onset of stage 3 T1D

At every visit, we:

  • Review your medical and family history
  • Perform a physical exam
  • Discuss your diagnosis, risk level, and treatment options
  • Educate you on monitoring and preventing complications
  • Screen for common co-occurring conditions, including hypothyroidism and celiac disease
  • Provide access to social workers and diabetes educators to help with home, school, and emotional support needs

Preventative Treatments to Delay T1D

Our clinic also offers access to the latest treatments designed to delay the onset of stage 3 T1D, including:

  • Teplizumab: An FDA-approved immunotherapy that can help delay the progression of T1D by preserving insulin production.
  • Lifestyle interventions: Nutrition, exercise, and stress management strategies that support blood sugar regulation and overall well-being.

Living Well with Pre-Clinical T1D

Knowing you or your child is at risk for T1D can feel overwhelming—but you are not alone. Our clinic offers resources, education, and support to help you stay healthy and confident throughout your journey.

Resources we provide:

  • T1D Screening Guides: Learn the importance of early detection and who should be tested.
  • Educational Tools on Stages & Monitoring: Understand the stages of T1D and how to track glucose levels.
  • Information on Teplizumab: Learn about this groundbreaking treatment and whether it’s right for you.

Preparing for Your Visit

To make the most of your appointment:

  • Arrive 15 minutes early to allow time for check-in
  • Bring your glucose meter or continuous glucose monitor (CGM) data, if you have one
  • List your medications and doses—let us know if you need refills
  • Write down your questions so we can address all your concerns

Take a proactive step toward preventing T1D. Schedule a screening or consultation today.

Diabetes Resources

Managing type 1 diabetes goes beyond insulin therapy—it’s about building a lifestyle that keeps you strong and healthy. We offer practical resources to support you on this journey.

Meet the Team

Learn more about the world-class Diabetes specialists at Cincinnati Children's; from our attending physicians and nurse practitioners, to our education specialists and registered dieticians.
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