Type 1 Diabetes TrialNet

TrialNet is screening relatives of people with Type 1 Diabetes to find out if these family members are at risk for developing diabetes.

Screening

  • Screening involves a simple blood test for the presence of diabetes-related autoantibodies that may appear years before Type 1 diabetes develops.
  • You may be screened to determine your risk of diabetes if
    • #1 You are between 1 and 45 years of age and are a first-degree blood relative (sibling, child or parents) of a person with type 1 diabetes 
    • OR 
    • #2 If you are between 1 and 20 years of age and have a second degree blood relative (cousin, uncle, aunt, niece, nephew, grandparent or half-sibling) with Type 1 diabetes.
      Relatives of people with Type 1 diabetes have about a 3-4 percent chance of testing positive for autoantibodies associated with diabetes.
  • There is no cost for the test.

How will you benefit from screening and further risk assessment?

  • If you learn you are at risk for developing Type 1 diabetes, additional tests will be offered to estimate your chances of developing type 1 diabetes. 
  • If you qualify, you may have an opportunity to be enrolled in either a Natural History or Prevention Study.
  • All research volunteers will be closely monitored for early detection for Type 1 diabetes.
  • Early detection of Type 1 diabetes may improve your blood sugar control and reduce your chances of developing complications.
  • You will be part of a research program that may help other people at risk for Type 1 diabetes.

Natural History Studies

  • Natural history studies are being done to learn more about what causes Type 1 diabetes and to better define predictors of the disease process.
  • These studies provide close monitoring to individuals at risk for developing Type 1 diabetes.
  • Individuals who qualify may be offered an opportunity to participate in a prevention study.

Diabetes Prevention Studies

  • Diabetes prevention studies are being planned to determine whether new therapies can delay, or prevent, the onset of Type 1 diabetes in “at-risk” individuals.
  • If you are enrolled in a prevention trial, your development of diabetes may be delayed or prevented, if the therapy being tested is successful

If you have anymore questions or want more information, please contact Martha Halsey-Lyda toll free at 877-880-4007 or mhlyda@childrensmemorial.com