Unidentified form of diabetes linked to malnutrition, according to specialists
In a significant move, the World Health Organisation (WHO) recognised a form of malnutrition-related diabetes as a distinct category back in 1999. This classification aims to better address and classify diabetes types influenced by nutritional deficiencies and poor socioeconomic conditions.
The WHO recommends providing people access to "low-cost, energy-dense staple foods high in protein and complex carbohydrates," such as lentils, legumes, oil-enriched cereals, and fortified grains. These foods are essential for combating malnutrition-related diabetes, particularly in developing countries where the disease is prevalent.
The authors of a paper published in The Lancet Global Health have called upon the international diabetes community to acknowledge type 5 diabetes. This form of diabetes affects people who are underweight due to lack of food intake, primarily individuals under the age of 30. As of now, types 3 and 4 diabetes have not been officially recognised.
Type 5 diabetes, also known as malnutrition-related diabetes, affects insulin production, similar to type 1 diabetes, which is usually diagnosed in childhood due to insufficient insulin production. However, type 5 diabetes is less severe than type 1 diabetes.
Numerous studies in countries including Bangladesh, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Nigeria, Uganda, Pakistan, and Rwanda have indicated that malnutrition can cause diabetes. The exact link between malnutrition and this strand of diabetes remains unknown, but the WHO has encouraged further research to understand the relationship better.
The International Diabetes Federation has reached a consensus to recognise type 5 diabetes as a distinct form of the disease. However, the WHO abandoned this classification in 1999 due to a lack of agreement among experts. Recently, the authors of a paper suggest supporting programs to combat poverty and hunger as the best way to fight type 5 diabetes.
It is important to note that the efficacy of existing diabetes treatments that do not focus on weight loss on type 5 diabetes is unclear. More research is needed to develop effective treatments for this form of diabetes that cater specifically to the unique needs of those affected.
As of now, more than 25 million people worldwide suffer from type 5 diabetes, primarily in developing countries. Acknowledging and addressing this form of diabetes is crucial for improving the health and wellbeing of millions of people worldwide. The WHO's recognition of type 5 diabetes marks a significant step towards achieving this goal.
