Early detection screening for type 1 diabetes: Our white paper

Our white paper outlines our position and the urgent need for action to identify people at risk and in the early stages of T1D before symptoms appear.

Why early detection matters

In the UK, many people are diagnosed with type 1 diabetes only after experiencing diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a serious complication that often leads to emergency hospitalisation. Early detection can prevent this. By identifying people at risk before symptoms appear, we can reduce trauma, improve long-term health, and ease the emotional burden on families.

With new treatments emerging that can delay the onset of symptoms, early detection offers a chance to change the course of the condition and give people more time before they need to manage it daily.

What’s inside the white paper?

• The case for a UK-wide screening programme
• Evidence from international programmes in Italy, Australia, and the US
• Real-life stories from people impacted by late diagnosis · Recommendations for the NHS
• The role of disease-modifying drugs
• Opportunities for screening in early childhood and beyond

This white paper has been developed by Breakthrough T1D with funding from Sanofi UK who has had no editorial input or control over the contents.