Type 1 Diabetes: Information Booklet

This project required me to design a static visual solution for people from economically weaker sections of society. I collaborated with a few batchmates to jot down potential areas in Healthcare in India. Based on my findings, I was intrigued to know more about Type 1 Diabetes. I conducted primary and secondary research to enhance my knowledge regarding this subject. Type 1 Diabetes is an autoimmune disorder that occurs in children. It destroys insulin-secreting beta cells in the pancreas, and hence very less or no insulin is produced due to which external insulin support is required. According to the guidelines, children with type 1 diabetes need to check their sugar levels at least thrice a day and adjust insulin dosage accordingly. Based on the research we have today, type 1 diabetes is not curable, it is controllable. But if not managed properly, the situation of extremely high sugar levels can prove fatal. A statement that struck me from one of the interviews was “Managing type 1 diabetes is teamwork. It requires the involvement of doctors, nutritionists, physiotherapists, diabetes educators as well as parents.” Without parental support and awareness, it almost becomes impossible to achieve desired glucose control. This booklet has been meticulously designed under the guidance of doctors and other health professionals to provide newly diagnosed patients and parents, with the ‘must-know’ information such as what type 1 diabetes is, what are available devices for glucose monitoring, insulin techniques etc. during the first few visits. It will be incorporated into the healthcare system for better absorption of the information. The sugar monitoring charts are also included which will encourage parents to monitor the sugar levels in a standardized format which will be easily and quickly comprehended by doctors to decide on further treatment.