Pop singer Lance Bass recently took to social media to reveal that he has been diagnosed with type 1.5 diabetes, also known as latent autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA). Bass, a former member of the popular boy band NSYNC, shared his journey with diabetes, shedding light on the lesser-known condition that affects millions of Americans.
Understanding Type 1.5 Diabetes
Type 1.5 diabetes is classified as an autoimmune disease where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the beta cells in the pancreas that produce insulin. Insulin is a hormone that helps regulate glucose levels in the body. Unlike type 1 diabetes, where beta-cell function declines rapidly, LADA progresses more slowly. It is typically diagnosed in individuals aged 30 and older and can be challenging to manage over time.
Dr. Silvana Obici, the chief of the Division of Endocrinology at Stony Brook Medicine, explains that while LADA shares similarities with type 1 diabetes, the decline in beta-cell function is much slower. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) considers LADA a subset of type 1 diabetes, as both conditions are characterized by autoimmunity but differ in the rate of beta-cell destruction.
Symptoms and Diagnosis of Type 1.5 Diabetes
The symptoms of type 1.5 diabetes are similar to those of type 1 and type 2 diabetes, but there are also some key differences. Dr. Kevin Peterson, the vice president of primary care for the ADA, notes that while type 1 diabetes is often associated with increased thirst, urination, hunger, and weight loss, these symptoms are less common in LADA. Symptoms of LADA may include fatigue, urinary tract infections, blurred vision, and mild issues that can be overlooked.
One of the challenges with diagnosing type 1.5 diabetes is the slow progression of the condition, making it difficult to distinguish from type 2 diabetes, especially in the early stages. Studies show that around 10% of adults with LADA are initially misdiagnosed as having type 2 diabetes. Blood tests are available to identify the type of diabetes a person has, but it often requires a degree of suspicion from healthcare providers based on clinical history.
Treatment and Management of Type 1.5 Diabetes
Treatment for type 1.5 diabetes can vary depending on the severity of beta-cell deficiency in the pancreas. Dr. David Lam, an associate professor in endocrinology at the Icahn School of Medicine, explains that early in the course of LADA, traditional type 2 diabetes treatments may be effective as the pancreas still produces enough insulin. However, as the condition progresses and insulin production decreases, injected insulin therapy becomes necessary to control blood glucose levels.
Managing type 1.5 diabetes can be challenging due to the unpredictable progression of the disease in individuals. Specific medications for LADA may include insulin therapy, metformin, GLP-1 receptor agonists, and DPPIV inhibitors, depending on the individual’s beta-cell function. Dietary intervention is crucial in managing all types of diabetes, focusing on glycemic control and avoiding complications like hypoglycemia.
Dr. Brian Burtch, an endocrinologist at University Hospitals, emphasizes the importance of considering a diagnosis of type 1.5 diabetes in patients who are young, not overweight, and not responding to traditional type 2 diabetes treatments. Approximately 1.2 million Americans are diagnosed with diabetes each year, with 10% of those cases being type 1.5 diabetes.
Conclusion
Pop singer Lance Bass’s public disclosure of his type 1.5 diabetes diagnosis has raised awareness about this lesser-known condition and highlighted the importance of accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment for individuals with diabetes. Understanding the symptoms, diagnosis, and management of type 1.5 diabetes can help healthcare providers and patients navigate this complex autoimmune disease effectively. By sharing his journey with diabetes, Bass has inspired others to seek proper medical attention and support for their diabetes care.