LADA diabetes is a less-known form of diabetes

Latent autoimmune diabetes in adults, or LADA, is a less well-known variation of diabetes. Sometimes referred to as type 1.5 diabetes, it is often mistaken for type 2 diabetes due to its slow onset in adulthood, but it is actually an autoimmune disease similar to type 1 diabetes.

LADA shares symptoms with other diabetes types

LADA presents symptoms such as frequent urination, intense thirst, and rapid weight loss, similar to both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. These symptoms may develop over days or weeks, but the autoimmune process causing them has often been ongoing for some time.

LADA involves the same autoimmune mechanism as type 1 diabetes

Like type 1 diabetes, LADA is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the pancreatic cells responsible for producing insulin. However, the process is slower in LADA, with insulin levels declining and blood sugar levels rising gradually over several years.

LADA is often misdiagnosed due to similar symptoms

LADA is frequently misdiagnosed as type 2 diabetes, partly because of overlapping symptoms and the common belief that autoimmune diabetes only occurs in children and adolescents. About 5 to 10% of cases are misdiagnosed, leading to ineffective treatment and potential complications.

LADA requires insulin treatment earlier than type 2 diabetes

Unlike type 2 diabetes, which often starts with lifestyle changes, LADA patients require insulin treatment much earlier. Delayed diagnosis can lead to serious complications such as diabetic ketoacidosis, which can be life-threatening if left untreated.

Diagnosing LADA involves specific antibody testing

To diagnose LADA, doctors must test for specific antibodies, such as GAD, ICA, IAA, IA2, and ZnT8. Blood sugar tests alone are not sufficient. If these antibodies are present, it strongly supports the diagnosis of LADA.

LADA can be effectively managed with proper treatment

Once diagnosed, LADA can be managed with insulin therapy, often delivered via a pen or insulin pump, and sometimes with GLP-1 agonists like Ozempic or Wegovy. With proper care, people with LADA can lead long and healthy lives, similar to those without diabetes.