Malnutrition: An Unexpected Culprit Behind Diabetes

In a groundbreaking revelation, health experts are calling for global acknowledgment of a little-known condition they refer to as "type 5 diabetes," linked directly to malnutrition. This urgent plea highlights the need for a new approach to tackle diabetes in impoverished regions grappling with severe food scarcity.

The Diabetes Landscape: A Closer Look

While the familiar forms of diabetes—type 1 and type 2—are well-documented, a third variant is emerging, primarily affecting individuals under 30. Unlike type 1, which involves a failure of insulin production, or type 2, associated with obesity, type 5 affects those who are underweight due to inadequate nutrition.

The Stark Reality: 25 Million Affected

Recent research published in *The Lancet Global Health* reveals that over 25 million people, most of whom live in developing countries, are afflicted with this malnutrition-driven diabetes. The International Diabetes Federation has echoed the call to formally recognize this distinct disease category.

Historical Context: Revisiting Past Classifications

This isn’t the first time malnutrition's link to diabetes has come up. In the late 20th century, the World Health Organization classified a variant called "malnutrition-related diabetes" but abandoned it in 1999 due to disagreements over causality.

Growing Evidence from Around the Globe

Studies across nations such as Bangladesh, Ethiopia, India, and Nigeria have consistently pointed to the connection between malnutrition and diabetes. Yet, the precise mechanisms remain unclear, particularly how existing treatment options, often focused on weight management, apply to individuals with type 5.

A Call to Action: Combating Diabetes through Hunger Relief

To effectively address this burgeoning health crisis, the co-authors of the study champion initiatives aimed at alleviating poverty and hunger. This includes distributing nutrient-rich, affordable food options—like lentils and fortified grains—essential for those at risk.

As the global health community shifts focus to recognize type 5 diabetes, it brings with it a renewed hope for millions affected by both malnutrition and diabetes. The fight against this hidden epidemic may not only improve diabetes care but also uplift countless lives burdened by hunger.