# IDF recognition of type 5 diabetes > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/idf-recognition-of-type-5-diabetes > Updated: 2026-10-21T17:00:00.000Z. Sources: 13. Developments: 3. The International Diabetes Federation (IDF) has officially recognized malnutrition-related diabetes as type 5 diabetes. This condition, formerly known as malnutrition-related diabetes mellitus (MRDM), is estimated to affect between 20 and 25 million people globally, with a high prevalence in low- and middle-income regions of Asia and Africa. Unlike type 1 (autoimmune) or type 2 (insulin resistance) diabetes, type 5 is caused by chronic nutrient deficiency that can impair pancreatic development and insulin production. It is frequently observed in thin adolescents and young adults who have experienced long-term undernutrition. While these patients produce insufficient insulin, they often maintain a relatively good response to it, distinguishing them from those with type 2 diabetes. Medical experts, including endocrinologist Meredith Hawkins, have emphasized that accurate classification is essential for patient safety. Because the unique metabolic profile of type 5 patients makes standard treatments dangerous, standard insulin dosages used for other types could cause life-threatening hypoglycemia. Historical context reveals that while the World Health Organization (WHO) categorized malnutrition-related diabetes as a separate entity in 1985, it was removed in 1999 due to a perceived lack of evidence. The IDF is now calling on the WHO to formally adopt this classification to ensure accurate diagnosis and safer treatment protocols. Experts also note that proper blood sugar management remains critical to prevent complications such as cardiovascular disease, kidney damage, and vision loss. ## Timeline ### 2026-10-21: Diabetes recognition expands with official acknowledgment of fifth type The International Diabetes Federation has officially recognized a fifth type of diabetes linked to long-term undernutrition, affecting millions primarily in Asia and Africa. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/diabetes-recognition-expands-with-official-acknowledgment-of-fifth-type ### 2026-10-10: International Diabetes Federation recognizes type 5 diabetes The International Diabetes Federation has officially recognized type 5 diabetes, a condition linked to malnutrition affecting up to 25 million people, primarily in Asia and Africa. 8 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/international-diabetes-federation-recognizes-fifth-type-of-diabetes ### 2026-10-06: International Diabetes Federation recognizes type 5 diabetes The International Diabetes Federation has recognized type 5 diabetes, a condition caused by chronic malnutrition affecting an estimated 20-25 million people worldwide. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/international-diabetes-federation-recognizes-type-5-diabetes --- Cite as: IDF recognition of type 5 diabetes. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/idf-recognition-of-type-5-diabetes