Diabetes is one of the leading non-communicable diseases (NCDs) worldwide. This chronic metabolic condition arises when the body experiences elevated blood sugar levels. While there are several types of diabetes, the most common are type 1 and type 2. However, have you heard of Diabetes Type 1.5?
Also known as Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults (LADA), Type 1.5 diabetes shares characteristics of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
According to a report by Science Alert, Type 1.5 diabetes occurs when the immune system attacks the pancreas cells responsible for producing insulin. However, unlike Type 1 diabetes, those with Type 1.5 diabetes may not require insulin immediately, as the condition progresses more gradually.
Most people diagnosed with Type 1.5 diabetes will need to start using insulin within five years of diagnosis, which contrasts with the immediate need for insulin in Type 1 diabetes.
Type 1.5 diabetes is most commonly diagnosed in people over the age of 30. This age group is generally older than those diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes but younger than those typically diagnosed with Type 2.
Although Type 1.5 diabetes shares genetic and autoimmune risk factors with Type 1 diabetes, lifestyle factors such as obesity and physical inactivity—more commonly linked to Type 2 diabetes—may also influence its development.
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Symptoms of Type 1.5 diabetes include:
- Increased thirst
- Frequent urination
- Fatigue
- Blurred vision
- Unintentional weight loss
It is important to note that individuals with Type 1.5 diabetes may need to monitor their blood glucose levels regularly throughout the day. Currently, there is no universally accepted management or treatment strategy for Type 1.5 diabetes, and it is often misdiagnosed as Type 2 diabetes.
Moreover, awareness of Type 1.5 diabetes remains limited, and the diagnostic criteria are still not clearly defined, as highlighted by Science Alert.