What does LADA mean in the context of diabetes?
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LADA stands for Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults. It's a slow-progressing form of type 1 diabetes that occurs in adulthood. Unlike type 1, it can take years for LADA to fully develop, and some people might even be misdiagnosed with type 2 in the early stages. This form of diabetes still requires insulin treatment, just like type 1.
The main difference between LADA and other types of diabetes is the age of onset and the rate of progression. Type 1 usually occurs in children and young adults, while type 2 is more common in adulthood. LADA, however, affects adults but progresses more slowly than typical type 1. It's important to note that LADA shares some characteristics with both type 1 and type 2, such as the need for insulin and the presence of autoimmune markers.
One common misconception is that LADA can be managed with diet and exercise alone, like type 2 diabetes. However, since it's a form of type 1, it will eventually require insulin treatment. It's crucial for people with LADA to work closely with their healthcare team to monitor their blood sugar levels and adjust their treatment plan as needed.
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