The International Diabetes Federation has officially recognized type 5 diabetes as a separate form of the disease. This type of diabetes is associated with chronic malnutrition and impaired pancreatic development, which distinguishes it from already known forms of the disease.
According to the organization, type 5 diabetes is most often diagnosed in thin adolescents and young adults. These are people with a body mass index below 18.5, which corresponds to the threshold for underweight. Such cases are mainly recorded in low- and middle-income countries, where access to nutritious food remains a challenge.
Scientists estimate that about 25 million people worldwide have type 5 diabetes. A significant portion of them are undiagnosed or mistakenly thought to have type 1 diabetes, making it difficult to find the right treatment.
The symptoms of type 5 diabetes are generally similar to those of other forms of the disease. They include constant thirst, frequent urination, increased fatigue, headaches, and slow wound healing. However, this form has a fundamentally different approach to treatment.
Experts note that insulin therapy for type 5 diabetes is often ineffective. Instead, a key element of treatment is considered to be dietary correction. Patients are recommended a diet with a high protein and nutrient content, which helps stabilize blood sugar levels and support the body's functioning.
Experts emphasize that the official recognition of type 5 diabetes should contribute to better diagnosis, the development of specialized treatment protocols, and increased awareness among doctors and patients in different countries.
