Diabetes is one of the leading non-communicable diseases (NCDs) globally. A chronic metabolic disease occurs when the body has elevated blood sugar levels. There are several types of diabetes but the most common are type 1 and type 2. But have heard of Diabetes type 1.5?
Known as latent autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA), diabetes type 1.5 has features of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
According to a report by Science Alert, type 1.5 occurs when the immune system attacks the pancreas cells that make insulin. However, people with type 1.5 often don’t need insulin immediately as the condition develops more slowly.
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Unlike diabetes type 1, most people diagnosed with diabetes type 1.5 will need to use insulin within five years of diagnosis.
People over 30 are most likely to get diagnosed with type 1.5 diabetes. This is usually older than the typical age for type 1 diabetes but younger than the usual diagnosis age for type 2.
Although diabetes type 1.5 has genetic and autoimmune risk factors similar to diabetes type 1, evidence has also shown it may be influenced by lifestyle factors such as obesity and physical inactivity which are more commonly associated with type 2 diabetes.
What are the symptoms of diabetes type 1.5?
Symptoms of diabetes type 1.5 include:
- increased thirst
- frequent urination
- fatigue
- blurred vision
- unintentional weight loss.
It is noteworthy that people with type 1.5 diabetes may need to monitor their blood glucose levels regularly throughout the day. Currently, there are no universally accepted management or treatment strategies for type 1.5 diabetes. Moreover, diabetes type 1.5 is often misdiagnosed as type 2 diabetes.
Moreover, there has been limited awareness of type 1.5 diabetes and unclear diagnostic criteria, as reported by Science Alert.
Rohit Malhotra is a medical expert and health journalist who offers evidence-based advice on fitness, nutrition, and mental well-being. His articles aim to help readers lead healthier lives.
