What is Latent autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA)?
Q: What is Latent autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA)?
A: LADA is a type of diabetes that is similar to both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. It is an autoimmune disease of the pancreas, meaning that the body's immune system attacks the cells in the pancreas that are supposed to make insulin. It also causes insulin resistance, which means that insulin does not work as well as it should in a person's body.
Q: What causes LADA?
A: LADA is caused by an autoimmune response in the body that leads to the destruction of the cells in the pancreas that produce insulin. The exact cause of this autoimmune response is unknown.
Q: How is LADA different from type 1 and type 2 diabetes?
A: LADA is similar to both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Like type 1 diabetes, it is an autoimmune disease of the pancreas. But like type 2 diabetes, it also causes insulin resistance. Most people with LADA are thin or skinny or have a normal BMI, although some are overweight to slightly obese.
Q: Who is at risk of developing LADA?
A: Anyone can develop LADA, but it is most commonly diagnosed in adults over the age of 30 who are thin or have a normal BMI. People who have a family history of diabetes or other autoimmune diseases may also be at higher risk of developing LADA.
Q: What are the symptoms of LADA?
A: The symptoms of LADA are similar to those of type 1 and type 2 diabetes, including increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, blurred vision, and slow-healing sores or cuts. These symptoms may develop gradually over time.
Q: How is LADA diagnosed?
A: LADA is diagnosed through a combination of blood tests and medical history. Doctors may also perform a glucose tolerance test to see how the body responds to a sugary drink. If these tests show that the body is not producing enough insulin or is resistant to insulin, a diagnosis of LADA may be made.
Q: How is LADA treated?
A: The treatment for LADA is similar to the treatment for type 1 and type 2 diabetes, depending on the severity of the condition. This may include lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise, as well as medications such as insulin or oral drugs that help the body use insulin more effectively. Some people with LADA may also benefit from immunosuppressive therapies that help to slow down the autoimmune response in the body.
