The International Diabetes Federation has officially recognised Type 5 diabetes as a distinct form of the disease. Contrary to the implication of a simple numerical classification, diabetes actually encompasses over a dozen types, each with unique characteristics, causes, and treatments. The newly defined Type 5 is primarily linked to malnutrition during early life and is predominantly seen in low-income countries, where approximately 20 to 25 million people are affected.
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Unlike Type 1 diabetes, where the immune system destroys insulin-producing cells, individuals with Type 5 diabetes suffer from a lack of insulin due to underdeveloped pancreases. This underdevelopment is not immune-related but rather stems from nutritional deficiencies during key developmental periods in childhood. Animal studies, particularly involving rodents, have supported this theory, showing that a diet low in protein during pregnancy or adolescence results in poor pancreas formation and limited insulin production.
Diabetes serves as an umbrella term for a collection of metabolic conditions that cause elevated blood glucose levels. However, the underlying mechanisms behind these conditions vary greatly. Accurate diagnosis of the specific type of diabetes is essential in ensuring effective treatment and management. Recognising these distinctions is a vital step in advancing medical understanding and improving patient outcomes.
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As medical science continues to refine its understanding of diabetes, the inclusion of malnutrition-related Type 5 diabetes will likely prompt increased research and discussion. This decision represents progress in global health awareness and highlights the importance of nutritional interventions, particularly in regions where malnutrition remains a pressing issue.
