The Role of the DCES in Type 1 Diabetes Screening and Early Detection
As screening and staging for type 1 diabetes (T1D) continue to advance, healthcare professionals have new opportunities to identify individuals at risk before symptoms develop. Among those uniquely positioned to support this effort are Diabetes Care and Education Specialists (DCESs).
Traditionally, DCESs have played a central role in helping individuals manage diabetes after diagnosis. Today, their role is expanding to include type 1 diabetes screening, early detection, education, monitoring, and care coordination. Recent guidance from ADCES and Breakthrough T1D recognizes the important role DCESs play in helping individuals and families navigate the screening and staging process.
Identifying Individuals at Risk for Type 1 Diabetes
One of the first steps in early detection is recognizing who may benefit from screening. Family history remains one of the strongest risk factors for type 1 diabetes.
First-degree relatives of individuals with T1D are significantly more likely to develop the condition than the general population. DCESs are often in a position to identify these individuals during routine clinical encounters and educate them about available autoantibody screening programs.
In addition to family history, DCESs can help raise awareness among healthcare teams and communities about the importance of early detection and monitoring.
The Benefits of Early Detection
Early detection of type 1 diabetes offers important clinical and emotional benefits. Research has shown that screening can dramatically reduce the risk of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) at diagnosis, a serious and potentially life-threatening complication. Early identification may also help preserve beta-cell function, improve glycemic outcomes, and provide individuals and families with time to prepare for future care needs.
For many families, knowledge reduces uncertainty. Understanding risk and participating in monitoring programs can provide a sense of preparedness and control during what may otherwise be an overwhelming experience.
Educating and Supporting Families
Type 1 diabetes screening is not simply a laboratory test. It often raises questions, concerns, and emotions for individuals and families.
DCESs are uniquely qualified to provide education about the stages of type 1 diabetes, explain screening results, and help individuals understand what comes next. They can also provide emotional support, discuss coping strategies, and facilitate referrals to behavioral health professionals when appropriate.
This combination of clinical expertise and patient-centered support is one of the defining strengths of the DCES profession.
Connecting Communities to Resources
The role of the DCES extends beyond individual patient encounters. Through community outreach, public education, partnerships with primary care practices, schools, and community organizations, DCESs can help increase awareness of type 1 diabetes screening and reduce barriers to care.
When individuals screen positive, DCESs also help coordinate referrals to endocrinologists, behavioral health providers, clinical trial programs, and other members of the healthcare team.
Looking Ahead
As screening and early detection become increasingly integrated into diabetes care, the role of the DCES will continue to grow. By identifying at-risk individuals, educating families, supporting emotional well-being, and coordinating care, DCESs are helping transform type 1 diabetes from a condition that is often diagnosed in crisis to one that can be recognized, monitored, and managed proactively.
Early detection saves lives, improves outcomes, and creates opportunities for education and support long before a diagnosis occurs. DCESs are uniquely positioned to help lead that effort.
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The Role of the Diabetes Care and Education Specialist in Screening and Monitoring for Type 1 Diabetes. The Science of Diabetes Self-Management and Care. 2025;51(3):345-351. doi:10.1177/26350106251337489
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Ziegler A, Kick K, Bonifacio E, et al. Yield of a Public Health Screening of Children for Islet Autoantibodies in Bavaria, Germany. JAMA. 2020;323(4):339–351. doi:10.1001/jama.2019.21565
- Stages of type 1 diabetes (T1d) | screen for type 1. Screen for Type 1 Diabetes Patient Site. Accessed June 3, 2026. https://www.screenfortype1.com/stages-of-type-1-diabetes/
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