Type 1a Diabetes Develops Because The Body Mistakenly Identifies Insulin-producing Cells (Beta Cells) As Being Foreign - Or "Non-self." The Immune System Targets And Ultimately Destroys The Beta Cells - Resulting In An Absence Of Insulin And The Subsequent Diagnosis Of Diabetes. This Autoimmune Process Is Thought To Smolder For Years - And There Are Individuals At Risk Of Developing Diabetes Who Do Not Yet Have The Diagnosis.