Diabetic, Insulin Dependent. Can I Marry A Girl With Diabetes?

Posted on Mon, 12 Aug 2013

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Mon, 12 Aug 2013 Answered on

Mon, 2 Sep 2013 Last reviewed on

Question : Hi,
I am a Diabetic Type1(insulin dependant) patient from 16 years.
I am thinking of marrying a diabetic type 1 girl. Is this a right decision or not?
Thnks..

Answered by Dr. Dr. Prasad J (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
I think it depends on circumstances

Detailed Answer:
Dear XXXXXXX let me explain that to you.

On medical grounds, the choice is not right. Though there is no conclusive evidence, as per American Diabetic Association, the chances of offspring developing diabetes are high if both parents have diabetes. There are 1/10 to 1/4 chances of your child developing type 1 diabetes, if you and your wife have type 1 diabetes.

Contrary to the above, the odds are 1/17 if your partner is a non diabetic.

Therefore if there is no other circumstance, I think you need to reconsider your strategy.

Hope this helps. Write back if you wish to discuss further.

Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar