Which statement correctly identifies Type 1 diabetes?

• A. Type 2 diabetes
• B. Hypoglycemia
• C. Atherosclerosis
• D. Pancreas does not secrete insulin; peak onset between 10 and 14 years

Answer: (D)

Type 1 diabetes is defined by autoimmune destruction of the pancreatic beta cells, leading to little or no endogenous insulin production. This causes absolute insulin deficiency and typically presents in childhood or adolescence, requiring lifelong insulin therapy. The statement that the pancreas does not secrete insulin and that onset peaks around ages 10 to 14 aligns with this, making it the best description of Type 1.

In contrast, Type 2 diabetes involves insulin resistance with a relative, not absolute, insulin deficiency and is more common in adults or associated with obesity; hypoglycemia is a low blood sugar state rather than a defining feature of Type 1; and atherosclerosis is a vascular condition that can occur as a complication but does not define Type 1 diabetes.