What is the key difference between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes regarding insulin production?

The key difference between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes in terms of insulin production is that Type 1 diabetes leads to total insulin deficiency. This type of diabetes is characterized by the autoimmune destruction of the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. As a result, individuals with Type 1 diabetes produce little to no insulin, necessitating external insulin administration for glycemic control.

In contrast, Type 2 diabetes typically involves insulin resistance, where the body's cells do not respond effectively to insulin, and while the beta cells may still produce insulin, it is often insufficient to meet the body's needs. Although some people with Type 2 diabetes may eventually require insulin therapy, it is not the primary management strategy as it is with Type 1 diabetes.

Understanding these differences underscores the critical role that the pancreas and insulin production play in managing both forms of diabetes, highlighting why total insulin deficiency is a defining feature of Type 1 diabetes.