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A team of international researchers has identified a new form of diabetes, now referred to as Type 5 diabetes, which does not exhibit the typical symptoms associated with either Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes. This discovery is reshaping the understanding of diabetes and its various manifestations, particularly in low-resource settings.
Key Characteristics of Type 5 Diabetes
Type 5 diabetes primarily affects individuals who are underweight, have no family history of diabetes, and do not display the classic symptoms seen in Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes. According to Dr. Nihal Thomas, professor of endocrinology at Christian Medical College (CMC), Vellore, “People living with Type 5 diabetes are typically underweight, have no family history of diabetes and show symptoms that do not quite match Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes”.
Historical Context and Recent Research
The condition was first observed in the 1960s in Jamaica and was initially termed J-type diabetes. It was classified by the World Health Organisation in 1985 but later removed in 1998 due to insufficient physiological evidence, with many experts at the time believing it was a misdiagnosed form of Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes. However, recent research led by Dr. Thomas, Dr. Riddhi Dasgupta (CMC), and Prof. Meredith Hawkins (Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York) has established clear physiological differences, confirming Type 5 as a distinct entity. Their findings were published in the journal Diabetes Care.
Physiological Differences
Unlike Type 2 diabetes, where the body becomes resistant to insulin, individuals with Type 5 diabetes are insulin deficient but not insulin resistant. This means their bodies do not produce enough insulin, but the insulin that is produced is still effective. Additionally, unlike Type 1 diabetes, patients with Type 5 do not show the usual autoimmune antibodies.
Prevalence and Demographics
Type 5 diabetes is most commonly found in people with a body mass index (BMI) below 18.5 kg/m² and is often linked to poor nutrition after birth, especially in babies born with low birth weight. The condition is more prevalent in regions with lower gross domestic product (GDP), such as certain areas in India. Notably, about half of the patients can be managed with oral medications rather than insulin, which is significant for low-resource settings.
Global Recognition and Ongoing Research
Following the publication of the research in Diabetes Care, the condition gained further attention through a review in Scientific American in 2023. A global task force has since been established to study the epidemiology and biology of Type 5 diabetes. Dr. Thomas emphasized that Type 5 diabetes should not be confused with MODY-5 (Maturity Onset Diabetes of the Young), which is caused by specific genetic mutations. Current estimates suggest there may be 25 to 30 million cases of Type 5 diabetes worldwide, with the actual number potentially higher.
Disclaimer:
This article is based on recent scientific findings and expert commentary as reported by The Economic Times. The information provided is for general awareness and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For any health concerns or symptoms, please consult a qualified healthcare provider.
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