Type 1.5 Diabetes: The Overlooked Condition You’ve Probably Never Heard Of
Many adults thought to have type 2 diabetes may actually have [[LADA]], often called type 1.5, a slowly progressing autoimmune form that ultimately requires [[insulin]]. Because it develops later and initially preserves some insulin production, [[LADA]] is frequently misdiagnosed, delaying appropriate treatment and increasing risks like heart attack, stroke, or ketoacidosis. Clinicians distinguish [[LADA]] from [[type 1 diabetes]] and [[type 2 diabetes]] with antibody tests, measures such as [[C-peptide]] and blood glucose metrics like [[A1C]]. Early recognition prompts timely transition from oral therapies such as [[metformin]] and lifestyle changes to insulin therapy when needed, and regular monitoring helps tailor care. Awareness of symptoms—excess thirst, weight loss, fatigue, neuropathy—and a modest BMI should raise suspicion for LADA and enable earlier insulin initiation to prevent long-term complications.