Researchers at the UK’s University of Exeter have developed a new genetic test for diagnosing diabetes in young adults, which will help doctors determine how likely a person is to have either Type 1 or Type 2 of the disease.
As obesity levels continue to rise, playing a factor in the rise of Type 2 diabetes, doctors are finding it increasingly difficult to distinguish between the two types of the disease accurately. A more accurate diagnosis with the new genetic test would be valuable for diabetes sufferers as the two different types can be treated in different ways. Whilst Type 1 diabetes needs to be treated with insulin injections, Type 2 diabetes can be controlled through diet, exercise, and a healthier lifestyle.