Type 5 diabetes is a newly defined form of the disease, officially recognized by the International Diabetes Federation in 2025. It affects an estimated 25 million people globally, yet remains largely unknown. Unlike the more common Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, this condition develops primarily due to chronic undernutrition, especially during childhood.
What Sets Type 5 Apart?
The key difference lies in the root cause. Type 1 diabetes results from the immune system attacking insulin-producing cells, while Type 2 diabetes stems from insulin resistance often linked to obesity. In contrast, Type 5 develops when prolonged undernutrition impairs the pancreas’s ability to produce enough insulin. As Dr. Ken Berry explains, “Type 5 diabetes involves a defect in insulin production, but the trigger is undernutrition impairing the pancreas early on, rather than autoimmunity or obesity.”
For years, many cases of Type 5 have been misdiagnosed as Type 1 or Type 2, leading to ineffective treatment. This misclassification matters because each type requires a different approach to management.
Who Is At Risk?
Type 5 diabetes is most prevalent in low- and middle-income countries, particularly in regions of Asia and Africa where chronic malnutrition is common. However, it can also affect food-insecure populations in wealthier nations. According to Dr. Yoon Kook Kim, the condition is “found more commonly in patients who had chronic significant malnutrition during childhood or adolescence.”
Recognizing the Signs
The symptoms of Type 5 diabetes overlap with those of other types: increased thirst, frequent urination, high blood sugar, fatigue, and unexplained weight loss. However, individuals with Type 5 may also be underweight and exhibit signs of poor early nutrition. Unlike Type 1, they are less likely to experience severe ketosis despite elevated blood sugar levels.
When To Seek Medical Attention
If you experience diabetes symptoms, see a doctor immediately. For those with a history of undernutrition or chronic food insecurity, especially during childhood, the risk is higher. If you’ve been diagnosed with Type 1 or Type 2 but aren’t responding to standard treatments, consider whether Type 5 might be the underlying issue. Misdiagnosis is common, and early evaluation can dramatically improve outcomes.
Current Treatment Approaches
Treatment for Type 5 diabetes is still evolving. While insulin therapy can be effective, it must be carefully tailored to avoid over- or under-treatment. Addressing underlying nutritional deficiencies by improving protein intake and correcting micronutrient deficiencies is also crucial. Some medications traditionally used for Type 2 diabetes may help the body make better use of the insulin it does produce.
Research into diagnostic criteria and precision medicine is ongoing, but early awareness and accurate diagnosis are essential for effective management.
