Which type of diabetes is characterized by the failure of insulin production by the β cells?

Type 1 diabetes is characterized by the failure of insulin production by the β cells of the pancreas. In this autoimmune condition, the body's immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing β cells, leading to an absolute deficiency of insulin. This lack of insulin results in the inability of cells to take up glucose from the bloodstream, causing elevated blood sugar levels.

Understanding the difference in insulin production is crucial. In Type 2 diabetes, for example, there may still be some insulin production; however, it is often accompanied by insulin resistance, meaning the cells do not respond properly to insulin. Gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy and involves insulin resistance rather than the complete failure of insulin production. Insulin resistance itself refers to the condition where the body's cells do not respond effectively to insulin but does not specifically relate to β cell function in terms of insulin production.

This distinction highlights why Type 1 diabetes is correctly linked to a failure of insulin production from the β cells.