The International Diabetes Federation (IDF) has officially recognised Type 5 diabetes as a distinct and separate form of diabetes. This condition primarily affects lean and undernourished young adults, especially in low- and middle-income countries, and has long been neglected by medical research.
What Is Type 5 Diabetes?
Also known as malnutrition-related diabetes mellitus, Type 5 diabetes is linked to chronic undernutrition and genetic factors that impair insulin production. Unlike Type 2 diabetes, which involves insulin resistance and is commonly associated with obesity, Type 5 diabetes arises from a deficiency in insulin caused by long-term malnutrition.
📊 Who Is Affected?
According to estimates by the IDF, Type 5 diabetes affects between 20 to 25 million people worldwide. It is most prevalent in parts of Asia and Africa where poverty and food insecurity are widespread.
Key Characteristics of Type 5 Diabetes
Low Body Mass Index: Patients typically have a BMI below 18.5 kg/m².
Insulin Deficiency: Insulin levels are severely reduced—lower than in Type 2 diabetes and slightly higher than in Type 1.
Chronic Malnutrition: A diet lacking in protein, fibre, and essential micronutrients.
Genetic Mutations: Defects that impair insulin secretion and action contribute to the condition.
Why This Recognition Matters
Awareness Boost: Recognition by IDF sheds light on a health crisis that has remained invisible for decades.
Improved Diagnosis: Health professionals can now distinguish this type from other forms, leading to better treatment.
New Research Avenues: IDF’s working group is set to develop diagnostic guidelines and conduct in-depth studies on this underreported condition.
How It Differs From Other Diabetes Types
Type 1 Diabetes: Caused by autoimmune destruction of insulin-producing cells.
Type 2 Diabetes: Results from insulin resistance and is often linked with obesity.
Type 3 Diabetes: Secondary diabetes caused by hormonal imbalances or pancreatic disorders.
Type 4 Diabetes: Gestational diabetes that develops during pregnancy.
The IDF will now coordinate international efforts to study the disease, improve diagnostic tools, and explore treatment strategies tailored to malnutrition-related diabetes. As awareness spreads, this recognition could bring long-overdue care and support to millions living with Type 5 diabetes across the developing world.