Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects the way your body processes blood sugar (glucose), with Type 1 and Type 2 being the most common forms. While Type 2 Diabetes typically develops over time and is often linked to lifestyle factors, Type 1 Diabetes is an autoimmune condition in which the body attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, usually diagnosed in children and young adults.
Managing diabetes effectively—whether Type 1 or Type 2—involves understanding its symptoms, exploring treatment options, and making lifestyle adjustments to maintain healthy glucose levels and reduce the risk of complications.
Choosing the right approach requires considering factors such as blood sugar control, treatment effectiveness, potential side effects, and individual health goals. Educating yourself on available options is key to making informed decisions that support long-term wellness.
Our clinical trials are designed to evaluate the latest treatment advances for both Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes, with a focus on efficacy, safety, and improving patient outcomes. M3 conducts trials for a variety of diabetes-related conditions, including: Diabetes conditions, including:
- Type 1 & Type 2 Diabetes
- Diabetic Neuropathy
- Diabetic Gastroparesis
- Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Diabetes Facts
Understanding Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes
Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how your body uses blood sugar (glucose). While Type 2 Diabetes typically occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t produce enough, Type 1 Diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the body attacks the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, leading to little or no insulin production.
In both types, the result is elevated blood sugar levels that can cause serious complications if left unmanaged. Proper management starts with understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatment options available.
Symptoms & Diagnosis
While symptoms can vary slightly between Type 1 and Type 2, there is significant overlap. Early detection is key for both types. Common symptoms include:
- Increased Thirst and Frequent Urination: High blood sugar leads to fluid loss through urine, causing dehydration.
- Increased Hunger: Without insulin, sugar doesn’t enter cells, leaving the body craving more energy.
- Fatigue: Cells deprived of glucose can leave you feeling constantly tired.
- Blurred Vision: High sugar levels pull fluid from the lenses of the eyes.
- Slow-Healing Sores or Frequent Infections: Elevated glucose levels can impair circulation and the immune response.
- Unexplained Weight Loss (more common in Type 1): The body begins burning muscle and fat for energy when it can’t use glucose properly.
Diagnosis for both Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes typically involves blood tests such as:
- Fasting Blood Sugar Test
- A1C Test
- Oral Glucose Tolerance Test
- For Type 1 Diabetes, additional tests may include autoantibody testing to distinguish it from Type 2. Monitoring blood glucose is crucial for both diagnosis and ongoing management.
Impact on Life
Living with diabetes—whether Type 1 or Type 2—means ongoing lifestyle and health management. However, with the right tools and support, individuals can lead full, active lives.
- Diet and Nutrition: Balanced meals tailored to blood sugar control are critical.
- Physical Activity: Regular exercise improves insulin sensitivity and overall health.
- Blood Sugar Monitoring: Daily tracking is essential for both Type 1 (especially when using insulin) and Type 2.
- Mental Health: Coping with a chronic illness can be challenging. Support groups, counseling, and care teams play a vital role in mental well-being.
Treatment Options
For Type 2 Diabetes:
Treatment often starts with lifestyle changes, followed by oral medications or non-insulin injectables, and may eventually include insulin therapy if blood sugar targets aren’t met.
Common Medications Include:
- Metformin
- Sulfonylureas
- DPP-4 Inhibitors
- GLP-1 Receptor Agonists
- SGLT2 Inhibitors
For Type 1 Diabetes:
Because the body produces little to no insulin, insulin therapy is the foundation of treatment. Insulin is delivered via injections or pumps, and continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) is commonly used to track levels in real time.
Medications
- Metformin Often the first medication prescribed, it works by reducing glucose production in the liver and improving insulin sensitivity to help treat diabetes.
- Sulfonylureas Help your body secrete more insulin to treat diabetes.
- DPP-4 Inhibitors Help reduce blood sugar levels without causing weight gain, aiding in the treatment of diabetes.
- GLP-1 Receptor Agonists Slow digestion and help lower blood sugar levels, contributing to diabetes treatment.
- Insulin Therapy Necessary for some people with Type 2 Diabetes who can’t maintain normal blood sugar levels with other medications, essential for treating diabetes.
Lifestyle Changes: Blood Sugar Management
Across both types of diabetes, healthy lifestyle habits are foundational for effective management:
- Healthy Eating: Focus on fiber-rich, whole foods and limit processed carbs and sugar.
- Regular Exercise: Movement helps the body use insulin more efficiently.
- Weight Management: Particularly important in Type 2 for reducing insulin resistance.
Research and Advances
Ongoing research continues to drive innovation in both Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes care. Studies explore new medications, better insulin delivery systems, and technologies like artificial pancreas devices and immunotherapies.
Diabetes Clinical Trials Contribute in Big Ways
Participating in clinical trials for Type 1 or Type 2 Diabetes is a proactive way to support advancements in diabetes care and research. Clinical trials are essential for testing new investigational treatments, exploring improved management strategies, and deepening our understanding of how both types of diabetes affect the body over time.
Qualify for a Diabetes Type 2 Clinical Trial Near You
Stay informed, see if you qualify for a diabetes study
By staying informed and possibly participating in clinical trials, you empower yourself to make choices that best suit your health needs and contribute to broader advancements in managing Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes. Understanding the importance of blood glucose levels and their impact on overall health is crucial, as these symptoms can significantly affect daily life and the effectiveness of potential treatments.
“The staff was very accommodating with scheduling. I appreciate their flexibility with changes to my appointments. Also, I never got bruised from blood draws. The clinical staff is experienced and thoughtful. I feel well taken care of. Thank you!”
— Patrick Yeung
Participate in Type 2 Diabetes Clinical Trials and Research
Your participation can lead to scientific innovation
By joining a Type 1 or Type 2 Diabetes clinical trials, you’ll receive:
- Access to Potential New Treatments Clinical trials provide access to cutting-edge investigational treatments that are not yet widely available.
- Expert Medical Care Participants receive close monitoring and care from leading diabetes researchers and healthcare professionals.
- Contributing to Research Your participation helps researchers develop treatments that are potentially better and understand the disease more comprehensively, benefiting future patients. These studies are often funded and conducted by national institutes, ensuring high standards and significant impact.
Find an Enrolling Diabetes Clinical Trial Today
Staying informed about Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes management and understanding how it impacts overall health is vital to sustainable maintenance of this chronic condition. While participating in a clinical trial can help to find the next breakthrough treatment for diabetes and diabetes-related complications, it’s important to understand the immediate impacts in order to properly manage your health.
Take control of your health and explore your options today. Use our Find a Trial tool or search by our clinics to find a local clinical trial in your area. If you have any questions or need additional support, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Do you know anyone who would be a good applicant for our studies?