LADA (Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults)
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🧬 What Is LADA?
LADA, also known as Type 1.5 diabetes, is an autoimmune form of diabetes that begins in adulthood and progresses more slowly than classic Type 1. It often gets misdiagnosed as Type 2 because patients may not need insulin immediately
🔎 Prevalence & Misdiagnosis
- 5–15% of adults initially diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes actually have LADA
- GAD autoantibodies are present in nearly 10% of presumed Type 2 diabetics in large studies .
- Globally, LADA accounts for about 3–12% of adult-onset diabetes
🧪 How LADA Develops
- Autoimmune attack on pancreatic β-cells (similar to Type 1)
- Disease onset after age 30 with slower progression; patients may rely on oral agents for 6+ months before needing insulin (mayoclinic.org).
Symptoms to Know
The symptoms are similar to other types of diabetes, but develop more slowly:
- Excessive thirst & urination (polydipsia, polyuria) – Unexpected weight loss
- Blurred vision
- Fatigue
- Often lean body type, active lifestyle