Diabetes Type 5, attributed to underweight, seeks acknowledgement from researchers - Researchers advocate for acknowledgement of a fifth form of diabetes, linked to being underweight
In a significant development, the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) has agreed on the recognition of a new form of diabetes this year. This new type, tentatively named Type 5, primarily affects individuals under 30 who are underweight due to food scarcity.
Researchers have identified this form of diabetes, which contrasts with Type 2 diabetes that is typically associated with overweight individuals. Unlike Type 2 diabetes, Type 5 occurs when adults develop immunity to the hormone insulin, a phenomenon similar to Type 2 diabetes. However, unlike Type 1 diabetes, the pancreas in this new form does produce some insulin, albeit insufficient for maintaining normal blood sugar levels.
The World Health Organization (WHO) classified a form of "malnutrition-related diabetes" in the 1980s and 1990s. However, the WHO removed this classification in 1999 due to the medical community's division on whether underweight alone was a sufficient cause of diabetes. Now, numerous studies in countries such as Ethiopia, Rwanda, Bangladesh, Pakistan, India, and Indonesia support the link between underweight and diabetes.
The study authors, who published their findings in The Lancet, call for the international diabetes community to recognize this new form of diabetes. They emphasize that the most effective measure against diabetes caused by underweight is to support existing programs against poverty and hunger. Providing access to "affordable, energy-dense, well-storable foods rich in protein and complex carbohydrates," such as lentils, vegetables, and oil-enriched grains, is a key component in combating diabetes caused by underweight.
The study in question was published in The Lancet, with the authors urging global acknowledgment of this diabetes form. They highlight that unlike Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, the treatment and management strategies for Type 5 diabetes may differ due to the unique factors associated with underweight individuals. It remains unclear how effective conventional diabetes medications are that do not consider the factor of underweight.
The exact relationship between underweight and the onset of diabetes remains unknown. However, the study authors suggest that further research is needed to understand the underlying mechanisms better. They also emphasize that the study's findings underscore the importance of addressing malnutrition and poverty to prevent the onset of Type 5 diabetes.
In conclusion, the recognition of Type 5 diabetes is a significant step towards understanding and managing this new form of diabetes. As the international diabetes community continues to explore this new frontier, the focus remains on supporting programs that combat poverty and hunger to prevent the onset of diabetes caused by underweight.
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