IDF identifies malnutrition-linked Type 5 diabetes

(Web Desk): A long-overlooked form of diabetes that affects millions of malnourished young people in low- and middle-income countries has finally been officially recognized as Type 5 diabetes.

The International Diabetes Federation (IDF) has named this newly identified condition as Type 5 diabetes, marking a significant step forward in global efforts to understand and treat this serious health issue.

Type 5 diabetes, also referred to as malnutrition-related diabetes, primarily affects thin adolescents and young adults in regions such as Asia and Africa, where food insecurity and poverty are widespread.

Unlike Type 2 diabetes, which is linked to obesity and accounts for most diabetes cases in developed countries, Type 5 diabetes is caused by chronic malnutrition.

Despite being documented for over 70 years, this form of diabetes has often gone unrecognized or misunderstood by healthcare professionals.