Lifestyle Adjustments Fall Short for Type 5 Diabetes: What's the Solution?

Recently, the International Diabetes Federation recognized a novel form of diabetes known as Type 5 Diabetes.

Unlike types 1 and 2, type 5 diabetes, which is sometimes called 'Maturity-Onset Diabetes of the Young,' primarily impacts children due to genetic factors. Because this condition is uncommon, it frequently remains unrecognized in India.

Type 5 diabetes is an inherited disorder triggered by a mutation in a solitary gene known as HNF1B. This form of diabetes typically manifests earlier in life and impacts not only glucose levels but also various organs such as the kidneys, pancreas, and reproductive system.

IN WHAT WAY DOES TYPE 5 DIABETES DIFFER?

Type 5 diabetes is an inheritable condition that usually appears when individuals are young. Apart from impacting the kidneys, this genetic disorder also influences the reproductive system. It often gets mistaken for either Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes because it exhibits similar symptoms to both types.

Dr. Himika Chawla, a senior consultant specializing in endocrinology and diabetology at PSRI Hospital, noted that the symptoms of type 5 diabetes extend beyond those seen in type 1 (autoimmune) or type 2 (insulin resistance), encompassing issues with both the kidneys and the reproductive system.

Diet and exercise are crucial, yet type 5 typically necessitates medication to manage blood glucose levels and safeguard organ health.

"Although proper nutrition and physical activity can help manage blood glucose levels, this condition usually necessitates medical treatment. Individuals with this issue generally require either oral medications for diabetes or insulin therapy. Considering its effect on renal function, consistent check-ups are essential," explained Dr. Chawla.

The distinguishing feature of this condition includes symptoms extending beyond problems with blood sugar levels. These additional signs encompass kidney cysts, pancreatic abnormalities, and hypomagnesemia—an electrolyte imbalance that can aid in diagnosing the disorder and managing electrolyte disruptions, particularly low serum magnesium levels.

Incorrectly diagnosing this condition may lead to improper treatment for patients, posing significant risks when organ issues remain unnoticed.

Actually, a study conducted in 2022 spanning 15 different nations revealed that 88.24% of individuals with genetically verified type 5 diabetes received their diagnosis before reaching 25 years old. This highlights the condition’s early appearance and risk of being wrongly categorized.

WHAT ARE THE METHODS FOR MANAGING TYPE 5 DIABETES?

Different from type 1 diabetes, immediate administration of insulin (the hormone) isn’t necessary, and unlike in type 2, the primary concern is not insulin resistance.

Dr. Chawla stated, "Patients might show an initial response to sulfonylureas, but many of them will require insulin eventually." Nonetheless, studies indicate that oral antidiabetic medications such as sulfonylureas frequently fall short, possibly because of underlying issues with the pancreas structure.

Researchers are investigating new treatment approaches, including GLP-1 medications similar to liraglutide, which could assist certain patients by enhancing insulin secretion, despite underdeveloped organs.

As Type 5 diabetes gains recognition among specialists, Dr. Chawla emphasized that the initial step should be raising awareness since enlightening healthcare providers and integrating cost-effective genetic screening into diagnosis procedures could enhance patient care in India.