History of DAISY
The DAISY study - The D iabetes A uto I mmunity S tudy in the Y oung - started in July 1993. The primary goal of DAISY is to learn how genes and the environment interact to trigger the onset of type 1 diabetes, the third most common chronic disease in children. In order to do this, the study follows two unique groups, children with a diabetic relative (either a sibling or parent), and children at an increased genetic risk (without a diabetic relative). While investigators have been able to find some of the most important genes which may increase the chances of developing the disease, the environmental factors and their interaction with these genes is still in question. Areas of interest are viruses, dietary factors, immuniztions, and social stressors. Continued follow-up through the child's important developmental stages will help us to gain a better understanding of the nature of diabetes, which may eventually lead towards prevention.