What is LADA? Understanding Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults: Causes, Treatment and Management

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Living with diabetes can feel like navigating an intricate maze. For many adults, the diagnosis of diabetes often falls into two well-known categories—Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes.

But what happens when symptoms don’t quite fit into either bucket? Enter Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults (LADA), often referred to as the “Type 1.5 diabetes” because of its mixed characteristics.

I was diagnosed with LADA in 2020, after a four year type 2 diabetes misdiagnosis. It can be a frustrating experience to hunt for answers, but there are a few key things to know about getting LADA identified at diagnosis.

This blog will guide you through the causes, symptoms, and management of LADA, offering insights to help both individuals and healthcare professionals better understand this unique condition.

What is Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults (LADA)?

Definition and Overview of LADA

LADA is an autoimmune form of diabetes that occurs in adults. Like Type 1 diabetes, the body’s immune system attacks the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas.

However, unlike classic Type 1 diabetes—which is typically diagnosed in childhood or adolescence—LADA develops gradually, often leading to an initial misdiagnosis of Type 2 diabetes.

If you’ve ever been told you have Type 2 diabetes but don’t respond well to oral medications, LADA might be worth exploring.

Differences Between LADA, Type 1, and Type 2 Diabetes

According to the American Diabetes Association, LADA accounts for 2-12% of all diabetes cases globally, making early detection crucial for effective management¹

There are clear distinctions that set can LADA apart from other types of diabetes:

• Onset Age: LADA typically occurs after age 30, whereas Type 1 diabetes often manifests earlier in life. Make no mistake though – Type 1 diabetes can happy ate any age.
• Progression: LADA has a slower progression compared to Type 1, with complete insulin dependency developing within months or years.
• Misdiagnosis: Due to its slow progression, LADA is often initially misdiagnosed as Type 2 diabetes because of the adult onset and initial responsiveness to oral medications.

Understanding these differences is crucial for early diagnosis and targeted treatment.

Causes and Risk Factors for LADA

Like other autoimmune diseases, the causes of LADA are complex and multifactorial. Research into the exact triggers is ongoing, but current evidence sheds light on some key contributors.

Genetic Predisposition

Certain genetic factors may increase the risk of developing LADA. Studies show that individuals with autoimmune genes, such as those in the HLA-DQ and HLA-DR loci² have a higher likelihood of developing LADA.

Interestingly, these genetic markers overlap with other autoimmune conditions like celiac disease or rheumatoid arthritis.

Environmental Triggers

Environmental factors, such as viral infections, stress, or exposure to certain toxins, are believed to play a role in triggering the autoimmune response.

Though the exact mechanisms remain unclear, these triggers may accelerate the gradual destruction pancreatic beta cells.

Symptoms of Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults

Common Symptoms

The symptoms of LADA often mimic those of Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes. These include:

• Increased thirst (polydipsia)
• Frequent urination (polyuria)
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fatigue
• Blurred vision

Symptoms Differentiating LADA from Other Diabetic Conditions

What sets LADA apart is the slow progression of symptoms. Initially, individuals may not need insulin and may respond to Type 2 diabetes treatments like metformin. However, over time, oral medications typically stop working as insulin production diminishes.

If you’re experiencing worsening symptoms despite treatment, your doctor may explore testing for LADA.

Diagnosis of LADA

Diagnostic Tests and Criteria

To confirm LADA, healthcare providers use a combination of the following:

1. Blood Glucose Testing: High blood sugar levels may indicate diabetes but do not distinguish between types.
2. Autoantibody Tests: Tests like GAD (glutamic acid decarboxylase), IAA, IA2 and other antibodies are key indicators of autoimmune diabetes.
3. C-Peptide Levels: Low levels of C-peptide (a marker of insulin production) point to insulin deficiency, common in LADA. Your c-peptide can diminish and change over time.

Importance of Early Diagnosis

Misdiagnosis can delay the implementation of proper treatment, leading to complications like worsening blood sugar control and diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA).

Early diagnosis can help prevent or minimize these risks and lay the groundwork for effective management.

Management and Treatment Strategies for LADA

1. Regular Blood Sugar Monitoring

• Why It’s Important: Regularly checking your blood sugar levels helps identify patterns, avoid highs (hyperglycemia) and lows (hypoglycemia), and make informed decisions about food, activity, and medication.
• How to Do It: Use a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) or a glucometer to track blood sugar trends throughout the day. For those newly diagnosed with LADA, monitoring before and after meals is especially helpful.
• Pro Tip: Log your readings in an app or notebook to share with your healthcare provider for better treatment adjustments.

2. Early Insulin Therapy to Preserve Beta-Cell Function

• Why It’s Important: In LADA, beta cells (which produce insulin) are attacked by the immune system. Early insulin therapy reduces stress on these cells, preserving their function for longer and preventing rapid progression.
• How to Approach It: Discuss with your doctor the appropriate insulin regimen for your needs. Basal insulin (long-acting) is often introduced first, with adjustments based on blood sugar trends.
• Pro Tip: Don’t fear insulin—it’s a valuable tool to maintain control and feel better. Starting early can delay complications associated with high blood sugar.

3. Balanced Meals with Protein, Fiber, and Healthy Fats

• Why It’s Important: Balanced meals help stabilize blood sugar levels and prevent spikes. Protein, fiber, and healthy fats slow the digestion of carbohydrates, leading to steadier glucose release.
• What to Include:
  • Protein: Lean meats, fish, tofu, eggs, or Greek yogurt.
  • Fiber: Non-starchy vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and fruits in moderation.
  • Healthy Fats: Avocado, nuts, seeds, olive oil, and fatty fish like salmon.
• Pro Tip: Plate method: Fill half your plate with non-starchy vegetables, one-quarter with protein, and one-quarter with carbs. Pair with healthy fats to round it out.

4. Regular Physical Activity to Improve Insulin Sensitivity

• Why It’s Important: Exercise helps your muscles use glucose for energy, reducing insulin resistance and improving overall blood sugar control.
• What to Do: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week (e.g., brisk walking, swimming, or cycling). Include strength training exercises twice a week to build muscle, which also helps with insulin sensitivity.
• Pro Tip: Check your blood sugar before and after exercise. Carry a quick source of glucose (like glucose tabs or juice) to treat lows if needed.

5. Mental Health Support and Diabetes Education

• Pro Tip: Don’t hesitate to ask for help—it’s a sign of strength, not weakness. Surround yourself with a team of medical professionals and a supportive community.ments with lifestyle changes, individuals can better manage the challenges of LADA.
• Why It’s Important: Living with LADA can be overwhelming. Managing a chronic condition takes an emotional toll, and stress can negatively affect blood sugar levels. Diabetes education provides tools to feel confident in your care.
• What to Do:
• Seek a certified diabetes educator (CDE) or join a diabetes support group to connect with others who understand your journey.
• Practice stress-reduction techniques like mindfulness, meditation, or therapy.
• Learn about LADA through reliable resources like the Glucose Guide or The LADA Support Group to stay informed and empowered.

Living with Latent Autoimmune Diabetes

Challenges Faced by Individuals with LADA

Living with LADA often involves unique hurdles, such as:

• Delayed Diagnosis: Many individuals experience frustration and confusion before arriving at the correct diagnosis.
• Misunderstanding: Because it falls between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, some patients feel their condition is less understood.
• Treatment Adjustments: Moving from oral medications to insulin can be an emotional transition.

Support and Resources Available

Fortunately, there’s a growing community for those living with LADA. Forums, diabetes support groups, and resources from organizations like the American Diabetes Association (ADA) provide valuable support.

Connecting with others who share your experiences can make the transition smoother.

Future Directions in LADA Research

LADA research is rapidly evolving, with scientists exploring everything from preventing beta cell destruction³ to pinpointing specific environmental triggers.

Researchers are also investigating how personalized medicine can improve outcomes for those with LADA.

One exciting area of focus is the development of immunotherapy treatments aimed at slowing the progression of the disease by targeting the immune system. These advances may soon revolutionize the way we manage autoimmune diabetes.

Learning to Manage Your Diabetes Diagnosis Today

While a diagnosis of LADA may feel overwhelming, it’s essential to remember that advances in research, treatment, and support networks make living a full and healthy life entirely possible.

My coaching and support community, Glucose Guide, is a great place to find more information about LADA, and how to manage.

If you’ve been struggling to find answers about your diabetes symptoms or feel your current management plan isn’t working, speak to your healthcare provider about testing for LADA. It’s never too early to empower yourself with the knowledge and tools you need to thrive.

References

1. Buzzetti, R., Tuomi, T., Mauricio, D., Pietropaolo, M., Zhou, Z., Pozzilli, P., & Leslie, R. D. (2020). Management of Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults: A Consensus Statement From an International Expert Panel. Diabetes, 69(10), 2037–2047. https://doi.org/10.2337/dbi20-0017 ↩︎
2. Rich, S. S., Erlich, H., & Concannon, P. (2018, August 1). Genetics of type 1 diabetes. Diabetes in America – NCBI Bookshelf. https://ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK567984/ ↩︎
3. Yin, W., Luo, S., Xiao, Z., Zhang, Z., Liu, B., & Zhou, Z. (2022). Latent autoimmune diabetes in adults: a focus on β-cell protection and therapy. Frontiers in Endocrinology, 13. https://doi.org/10.3389/fendo.2022.959011 ↩︎