Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is not currently preventable or curable and we don’t know the exact cause yet, but incredible advances in medical technology and science have made screening of markers of condition more easier than ever.
We sat down with the world-renowned Ultramara Sonar of Peloton’s Fitness Programming author, author, principal and vice president, Robin Arzon idol of the diabetic community, learning her T1D journey and why she advocates for early screening of conditions.
Robin Arzón, Vice President of Fitness Programming, Head Instructor at Peloton and founder of the Swagger Society. Photo credit: James Farrell.
Diabetes autoantibody screening, a simple blood test available in numerous labs across the country, can detect T1D in its early stages, months or years before symptoms develop.
Research shows that up to 40% of new onset T1D diagnoses are made when an individual is already experiencing DKA. In such cases, 38.8% of children with DKA were seen by the doctor at least once prior to diagnosis.
This is why early detection of markers of T1D is so important. In this way, if people test positive, they can monitor their symptoms and get diagnosed before entering DKA.
Read more about DKA: What is diabetic ketoacidosis? and How to avoid diabetic ketosidosis (DKA).
What’s your story about T1D diagnosis?
Unlike many people with T1D, Robin was diagnosed with an adult in his early 30s and had diabetes and lived and worked in New York City.
She said, “I’ve just returned from an international trip and my mother realized that there wasn’t something with me. She was a doctor and she encouraged me to meet my doctor and get some blood work to see what was going on.”
Arzon says she and her family were totally shocked, as they were previously incredibly healthy people on all accounts. She says that getting a T1D diagnosis while running Ultramarathons and learning to navigate chronic conditions is a steep learning curve, but that wasn’t impossible.
“I was fortunate to not be diagnosed with DKA. My diagnosis was made so quickly that I could plan for my life and continue my passion for running.”
She vowed not to let diabetes define her identity, and instead chose to live in a state without being governed. She saw it as an opportunity to empower her to pursue her dreams.
In accepting this perspective, she aims to inspire and educate others about the importance of making informed health decisions, including the key role of early screening for T1D.
For more information about type 1 diabetes, see below. Type 1 diabetes – Symptoms, diagnosis, causes, treatment.
What is One Pledge Movement?
Arzón said, “T1D cannot be prevented, but can be detected early. It can be screened even before symptoms develop.”
She continues, “I’m in favor of arming myself with information. Having options. You should own a pen to the story you’re writing.”
Arzón and other well-known figures in T1D have adopted one pledge to encourage others to screen for diabetic autoantibodies to see if they are at a higher risk.
Blood tests are easy. Most doctor offices can do that. For a moment, energy, money can tell if you are at a higher risk of developing T1D before any dangerous complications arise.
If your first class relative (e.g., a parent, sibling, or child) has a T1D, you are 8-15 times more likely to develop it. Therefore, it is very important to get screened if you have a connection with your family with your condition.
Why are you involved and why are you passionate about early screening for T1D?
Arzón says he is grateful that he has not been diagnosed with T1D in DKA. They also hope that by spreading awareness of these improvements in medicine, others will be given the knowledge they need to control their health.
Early screening for T1D is not available until recently, and people are encouraged to understand their risks and actively manage their health.
How do you share information about early screening with others?
Arzón says you can read more about the pledge on one pledge website. She continues. “You can also check out the doctor’s discussion guide. When you go to the doctor’s office, you can use your voice to help yourself and your family.”
She said, “When we don’t have all the information, it can feel like it’s not empowering. This will help empower you. And while it can be scary, you’ll start when you’re ready and see how you really feel.”
What do you know if you knew at the time of your diagnosis?
With a laugh, Arzon said, “Lots! There’s so much to know! I wish I had known to understand that. I’ve always focused on what I have control over. I’ve been hoping for life perfectly!
She continues, “And of course I wish I had known there were plenty of snacks.”
What is your favorite snack?
Arzon said, “I usually have a clementine at the bottom of my bag all the time. If I’m home, I love making smoothies.”
Is there anything else you would like to share about your life with T1D?
“I want people to feel embarrassed about living with T1D,” Arzon said. “It shouldn’t be surprising that we are here. We should all be proud of it.”
Final Thoughts
Type 1 diabetes remains a critical health challenge, but advances in medical technology have made it even closer than ever to effectively manage it from the early stages.
The availability of diabetic autoantibody screening is a game changer, allowing early detection and management strategies that can prevent severe complications like DKA.
The Robin Arzon story is not merely inspiring, but also a beacon for the possibility of living a complete and vibrant life in T1D.
1 Her defense of the Pledge Movement underscores a critical message. Knowledge is power. Early screening can turn diagnosis from a crisis into a manageable aspect of life, allowing diabetics to continue pursuing their dreams without pause.
