Part 5 of the “What Does It All Mean?” series, a real-life reflection on living with Type 1 Diabetes, written by Dennis Goldensohn, who has lived with T1D for nearly 60 years.
By Dennis Goldensohn: T1D for nearly 60 years, advocate, and mentor
Understanding the History of Diabetes
Today, we often think of diabetes as a condition that has only been around for the past century. However, it is important to understand the history and development of treatments that have evolved over time to improve how we manage diabetes.
In this discussion, we take a step back in time to better understand where we started and how we arrived at where we are today.
Diabetes Through the Ages
Diabetes is a condition that dates back many centuries. Historical records suggest that as early as 1550 BC in ancient Egypt, an ailment resembling diabetes was recognized. Treatments at the time included mixtures of plants, soil, and honey. While these remedies provided some relief, they were far from a cure.
According to ancient texts, diabetes was relatively rare compared to its prevalence today. Nevertheless, it has been part of human history for hundreds of years.
The Discovery That Changed Everything
As time went on, diabetes became more common, yet there were no effective treatments available.
That changed in 1921, when a team at the University of Toronto, led by Dr. Frederick Banting and his assistant Charles Best, discovered insulin. They successfully isolated the hormone from a canine pancreas, and James Collip later purified it for human use. This breakthrough made it possible to produce insulin for people living with diabetes.
Remarkably, the team sold the patent for just $1 to ensure insulin would be accessible to everyone.
Advancements in Insulin Therapy
The discovery of insulin laid the foundation for modern diabetes management and significantly extended life expectancy.
Over time, insulin production evolved. Early forms were derived from the pancreases of cows and pigs, whose genetic makeup was similar to humans. These insulins were purified and used widely before more advanced options became available.
In 1982, biosynthetic insulin was introduced using recombinant DNA technology. This marked a major advancement, as these insulins closely matched human insulin. Long-acting insulin was developed to provide steady glucose control, followed by fast-acting insulin in the 1990s to better manage blood glucose levels around meals.
The Evolution of Glucose Monitoring
Managing diabetes has always required the ability to measure blood glucose levels.
In 1850, Hermann von Fehling developed the first chemical reagent to detect sugar in urine. By the 1940s, Clinitest tablets made testing more accessible, though still complex. In the 1950s, color-changing urine strips improved ease and accuracy.
A major breakthrough came in 1965 with the introduction of blood glucose test strips (Dextrostix), allowing direct measurement from a fingerstick. By the 1970s, the first portable glucometers became available, giving people more independence in managing their condition.
Modern Technology: CGMs and AID Systems
Today, Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs) have transformed diabetes management. These devices measure glucose levels using interstitial fluid under the skin and can be worn for several days, depending on the model.
CGMs later became part of Automated Insulin Delivery (AID) systems, where they communicate directly with insulin pumps. This closed-loop system allows for more precise and automated blood glucose management.
Through mobile apps, users can track their blood glucose levels in real time and monitor metrics such as Time in Range (TIR), a key indicator of how well glucose levels are being managed.
Measuring Long-Term Control
Clinical tools have also evolved. The A1C test measures average blood glucose levels over a period of 90 to 180 days, providing a long-term view of diabetes management.
More recently, CGM-derived metrics such as Glucose Management Indicator (GMI) offer additional insights, helping people better understand trends and patterns in their glucose levels.
How Far We’ve Come And What It Means
As we can see, diabetes has a long and complex history. Many of the most significant advancements have taken place over the past century, driven by research, technology, and innovation.
Today, we are better equipped than ever to manage diabetes effectively.
One important reminder: we manage diabetes, we do not control it completely. Even so, with the tools, knowledge, and support available today, people who live with diabetes can lead long, fulfilling, and productive lives.
And That Is What It All Means
What Is This Series?
At Diapoint, we believe that the most powerful education comes from real people and real lives lived with diabetes.
That’s why we’re proud to introduce a new blog series by Dennis Goldensohn.
Dennis has been living with Type 1 Diabetes for nearly six decades, diagnosed at just 16 years old, and now approaching 59 years of life with T1D, without complications. His journey is not only a testament to resilience but also to what is possible with the right mindset and support.
Beyond his personal experience, Dennis brings a lifetime of dedication to service and advocacy. He spent 45 years working in aerospace manufacturing, while also volunteering with organizations such as JDF, JDRF, Breakthrough T1D, DPAC, and the Diabetes Research Institute. Today, he continues to mentor young people navigating their futures, while sharing his lived experience with diabetes to support others.
His series, “What Does It All Mean?”, is exactly what it sounds like: a reflection on life with diabetes, beyond the numbers, beyond the devices, and beyond the daily routines.
Through this series, Dennis explores:
- The realities of living with diabetes every single day,
- The misconceptions and stigma people face,
- The history and progress of diabetes care,
- The power of community, advocacy, and teamwork,
- And ultimately, what it truly means to live a full, successful life with diabetes.
This is not just education. This is perspective and lived experience.
And above all, this is reassurance that yes, you can.
