Most people are aware of type 1 and type 2 diabetes, but what about type 1.5 diabetes, also known as latent autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA)? Type 1.5 diabetes combines features of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Recently, the condition made headlines when Lance Bass, a member of the iconic American pop band NSYNC, disclosed that he has it. But what exactly is type 1.5 diabetes, and how is it diagnosed and treated?
Diabetes mellitus is a group of conditions that occur when the levels of glucose (sugar) in the blood are elevated. While there are more than ten types of diabetes, the most common are type 1 and type 2. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disorder where the body’s immune system attacks and destroys the pancreatic cells that produce insulin. Insulin is essential for transferring glucose from the blood to the cells for energy. Individuals with type 1 diabetes require daily insulin injections. On the other hand, type 2 diabetes arises from insulin resistance in the body’s cells, and the pancreas cannot produce sufficient insulin to overcome this resistance. People with type 2 diabetes still produce some insulin. Type 1 diabetes typically develops in children or young adults, while type 2 is more common in adults and increasingly seen in children and young individuals.
Type 1.5 diabetes occurs when the immune system attacks the pancreatic cells responsible for insulin production. However, individuals with type 1.5 may not immediately require insulin as the condition progresses more slowly than type 1 diabetes. Most individuals with type 1.5 diabetes will eventually need insulin within five years of diagnosis. Unlike type 1 diabetes that is primarily diagnosed in children and young adults, type 1.5 diabetes is typically identified in individuals over 30 years old due to its slow progression. It shares genetic and autoimmune risk factors with type 1 diabetes but may also be influenced by lifestyle factors like obesity and physical inactivity commonly associated with type 2 diabetes.
Symptoms of type 1.5 diabetes can vary among individuals, with some experiencing no symptoms at all. Common symptoms include increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, blurred vision, and unintentional weight loss. Initially, type 1.5 diabetes is often managed with oral medications to regulate blood glucose levels. Monitoring blood glucose levels regularly may be necessary, and if levels remain elevated despite oral medications, insulin therapy might be introduced. However, there are no universal guidelines for managing type 1.5 diabetes.
Misdiagnosis of type 1.5 diabetes as type 2 diabetes is not uncommon, occurring 5-10% of the time. Accurate diagnosis of type 1.5 diabetes requires specific antibody tests to detect autoimmune markers, which are not always ordered by healthcare professionals. Additionally, type 1.5 diabetes is frequently mistaken for type 2 diabetes due to its prevalence in adults. The lack of clear diagnostic criteria and limited awareness of type 1.5 diabetes have hindered research and understanding of this condition. In 2023, it was estimated that 8.9% of all diabetes cases were type 1.5 diabetes, similar to type 1, but more research is needed for accurate figures.
Being misdiagnosed with type 2 diabetes instead of type 1.5 diabetes can have serious implications for individuals, delaying the appropriate treatment and potentially leading to worsening health outcomes. It is crucial for healthcare professionals to consider type 1.5 diabetes as a possible diagnosis, especially in adults presenting with atypical diabetes symptoms. Increasing awareness and understanding of type 1.5 diabetes can aid in timely and accurate diagnoses, ensuring individuals receive the most suitable treatment for their condition. If you suspect you may have symptoms of diabetes or are uncertain about a previous diagnosis, consult with your healthcare provider for evaluation and guidance.
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