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IDF recognition of type 5 diabetes

Updated 2 times since CLSTR started tracking revisions of this situation.

What changed

2026-10-10 22:13 UTC → 2026-10-22 18:25 UTC · added removed

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. Patients often present with a low body mass index (BMI) of less than 19 kg/m². 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 other major health institutions, such as the World Health Organization (WHO), WHO to formally recognize and 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.

Versions

  1. 2026-10-22 18:25 UTC IDF recognition of type 5 diabetes
  2. 2026-10-10 22:13 UTC IDF recognition of type 5 diabetes
  3. 2026-10-10 07:50 UTC IDF recognition of type 5 diabetes

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