Type 5 diabetes is a little-known but serious health condition that is now gaining attention. Recently recognized by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), this form of diabetes is also known as Severe Insulin-Deficient Diabetes (SIDD). Unlike Type 1 or Type 2, Type 5 diabetes mostly affects children and young adults in low- and middle-income countries—especially where malnutrition is common.
What Is Type 5 Diabetes?
Type 5 diabetes is not caused by insulin resistance or an autoimmune attack on the pancreas. Instead, it results from prolonged malnutrition. This condition damages the pancreas over time, making it unable to produce enough insulin, a hormone that helps control blood sugar.
Children growing up in poverty are especially vulnerable. Without access to proper nutrition, their bodies fail to develop fully, and the pancreas becomes severely impaired. This leads to chronically high blood sugar levels and, eventually, Type 5 diabetes.
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How Is Type 5 Diabetes Different?
Unlike Type 1 (autoimmune) or Type 2 (lifestyle-related) diabetes, Type 5 diabetes is driven by environmental and socioeconomic factors. It often affects children who:
- Eat nutrient-poor diets
- Face frequent gut infections
- Have chronic digestive issues
These issues prevent their bodies from absorbing essential vitamins and minerals, which are critical for pancreatic health.
Symptoms of Type 5 Diabetes
The signs are often similar to other types of diabetes, making it easy to misdiagnose. Look out for:
- Constant thirst and hunger
- Frequent urination
- Sudden weight loss
- Fatigue
- Blurred vision
If left untreated, Type 5 diabetes can lead to life-threatening conditions like diabetic ketoacidosis, where the body produces excess acids due to a lack of insulin.
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Causes and Risk Factors
The root cause is chronic malnutrition, especially in growing children. But several factors can worsen it:
- Unhealthy diets high in sugar and processed foods
- Gastrointestinal infections that block nutrient absorption
- Hormonal imbalances that disturb blood sugar control
Poor sanitation, lack of healthcare, and poverty often go hand in hand, making the condition worse in many communities.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosing Type 5 diabetes is tricky. Since the symptoms resemble Type 1 or Type 2, doctors must dig deeper. Tests may include:
- Blood sugar and insulin level tests
- Pancreatic imaging scans
- Nutritional assessments
Treatment involves daily insulin therapy, along with nutritional support. A diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and proteins is essential to support overall health and pancreatic recovery.
Children need regular medical care, proper food, and awareness to manage the condition. Without intervention, the damage can become irreversible.
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A Growing Global Concern
According to IDF, the number of children affected by Type 5 diabetes is rising fast, especially in countries like India, where child malnutrition is a serious issue. Estimates suggest that hundreds of thousands of children may already have undiagnosed Type 5 diabetes.
Healthcare providers and parents must be educated about this silent threat. Early diagnosis and proper treatment can save lives and prevent long-term complications like kidney failure, vision loss, and nerve damage.
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