Latent Autoimmune Diabetes of Adults LADA

Latent Autoimmune Diabetes of Adults (LADA)

Sometimes referred to as type 1.5 diabetes, Latent Autoimmune Diabetes of Adults (LADA) appears in adulthood, typically around age 30, and like type 1 diabetes, is caused by an autoimmune attack on the insulin-producing cells of the pancreas. People with LADA are generally slim and physically fit with little or no resistance to insulin.

LADA progresses more slowly than type 1 diabetes and can be misdiagnosed as type 2 diabetes because LADA patients sometimes respond well initially to oral medications. However, most patients eventually require insulin. Type 1.5 patients usually face a lower risk for heart problems than type 2 patients who have the characteristic high cholesterol and blood pressure.