Certified Rehabilitation Counselor Practice

What is a common characteristic of individuals with diabetes type 1?

1. Insulin resistance

2. Inadequate insulin production

3. Excessive weight gain

4. High blood cholesterol levels

The correct answer is: Inadequate insulin production

Individuals with type 1 diabetes are characterized primarily by inadequate insulin production. This condition arises because the body's immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. As a result, people with type 1 diabetes are unable to produce sufficient insulin, which is essential for regulating blood glucose levels. In contrast, insulin resistance is typically associated with type 2 diabetes, where the body may produce insulin but cannot use it effectively. Excessive weight gain often plays a significant role in the development of type 2 diabetes as well and is less commonly associated with type 1. High blood cholesterol levels may occur in various populations but are not a defining characteristic of type 1 diabetes specifically. Thus, inadequate insulin production is the hallmark feature of type 1 diabetes, making it the correct choice in this context.