Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) is a progressive autoimmune disease often identified in childhood or adolescence, with early stages detectable through pre-diabetic markers such as autoantibodies and subclinical beta-cell dysfunction. The identification of the pre-T1D stage is critical for preventing complications, such as diabetic ketoacidosis, and for enabling timely interventions that may alter disease progression. This review examines the multifaceted approach to managing T1D risk in adolescents and teens, emphasizing early detection, nutritional interventions, beta-cell preservation strategies, and psychosocial support. Screening for T1D-associated autoantibodies offers predictive insight into disease risk, particularly when combined with education and family resources that promote lifestyle adjustments. Although nutritional interventions alone are not capable of preventing T1D, certain lifestyle interventions, such as weight management and specific nutritional choices, have shown the potential to preserve insulin sensitivity, reduce inflammation, and mitigate metabolic strain. Pharmacological strategies, including immune-modulating drugs like teplizumab, alongside emerging regenerative and cell-based therapies, offer the potential to delay disease onset by protecting beta-cell function. The social and psychological impacts of a T1D risk diagnosis are also significant, affecting adolescents’ quality of life, family dynamics, and mental health. Supportive interventions, including counseling, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and group support, are recommended for managing the emotional burden of pre-diabetes. Future directions call for integrating universal or targeted screening programs within schools or primary care, advancing research into nutrition and psychosocial support, and promoting policies that enhance access to preventive resources. Advocacy for the insurance coverage of screening, nutritional counseling, and mental health services is also crucial to support families in managing T1D risk. By addressing these areas, healthcare systems can promote early intervention, improve beta-cell preservation, and support the overall well-being of adolescents at risk of T1D.

Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) is a progressive autoimmune disease often identified in childhood or adolescence, with early stages detectable through pre-diabetic markers such as autoantibodies and subclinical beta cell dysfunction. Identification of the pre-T1D stage is critical for preventing complications, such as diabetic ketoacidosis, and for enabling timely interventions that may alter disease progression. This review examines the multifaceted approach to managing T1D risk in adolescents and teens, emphasizing early detection, nutritional interventions, beta cell preservation strategies, and psychosocial support. Screening for T1D-associated autoantibodies offers predictive insight into disease risk, particularly when combined with education and family resources that promote lifestyle adjustments. Although nutritional interventions alone are not capable of preventing T1D, certain lifestyle interventions, such as weight management and specific nutritional choices, have shown potential in preserving insulin sensitivity, reducing inflammation, and mitigating metabolic strain. Pharmacological strategies, including immune-modulating drugs like teplizumab, alongside emerging regenerative and cell-based therapies, offer potential in delaying disease onset by protecting beta cell function. The social and psychological impacts of a T1D risk diagnosis are also significant, affecting adolescents’ quality of life, family dynamics, and mental health. Supportive interventions, including counseling, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and group support, are recommended for managing the emotional burden of pre-diabetes. Future directions call for integrating universal or targeted screening programs within schools or primary care, advancing research into nutrition and psychosocial support, and promoting policies that enhance access to preventive resources. Advocacy for insurance coverage of screening, nutritional counseling, and mental health services is also crucial to supporting families in managing T1D risk. By addressing these areas, healthcare systems can promote early intervention, improve beta cell preservation, and support the overall well-being of adolescents at risk of T1D.

Dysglycemia, affecting over 800 million people globally, poses a significant challenge to health systems and economies, contributing to healthcare costs exceeding $966 billion annually. This practice paper presents a strategic, multi-level framework addressing dysglycemia through evidence-based interventions. Effective measures include promoting low-glycemic diets, structured physical activity, and continuous glucose monitoring technologies to enhance self-management. Policy initiatives such as sugar taxation and healthy food subsidies incentivize healthier choices, while healthcare provider training enhances clinical capacity. These integrated efforts have demonstrated reduced hospitalizations, improved cognitive function, and economic benefits through lower medication costs and enhanced workforce productivity. Addressing healthcare inequities and tailoring interventions to cultural contexts are critical to long-term success.