What is Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults (LADA)
Here is what I know from my research…
LADA, Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults, exhibits characteristics common to both type 1 and type 2 diabetes, earning it the classification as a slow-onset form of autoimmune diabetes. Similar to type 1 diabetes, it involves the immune system erroneously targeting and destroying insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. However, LADA typically manifests later in life, akin to the onset of type 2 diabetes.
This classification as a subtype of type 1 diabetes or type 1.5 arises due to the distinctive features of LADA. Over time, individuals with LADA often witness a gradual decline in insulin production, necessitating insulin therapy. This sets LADA apart from certain instances of type 2 diabetes, where insulin therapy may not be imperative for an extended period.
Diagnosing LADA relies on a combination of clinical and laboratory criteria, including the presence of autoantibodies associated with autoimmune diabetes, such as anti-GAD antibodies (glutamic acid decarboxylase antibodies).
This article from the Mayo Clinic is helpful.
Can this be prevented?
Not from what I have read. Diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes may slow the progression, but LADA patients are eventually insulin-dependent.
Currently, there is no known way to prevent the development of Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults (LADA) in individuals who test positive for glutamic acid decarboxylase antibodies (GAD antibodies) or other autoimmune markers associated with diabetes. GAD antibodies are commonly found in individuals with autoimmune diabetes, including both type 1 diabetes and LADA.
Individuals with a family history of diabetes or other autoimmune conditions may be at a higher risk, which is weird for me because I do not know of any diabetes in my family history. I guess I’m the lucky one.
Now what?
Should I test my kids to see if they have the antibodies for type 1? Will it change anything? I’ve seen a lot of ads lately for testing family members to see if they have the antibodies that will one day attack their pancreas. If we knew our future would we change our eating habits? Would we live in liberation because we now know our future or would we live in constant fear of when that day will come? Would we develop a new variety of anxiety/depression as we wait for that day?
I do not know the best answer. I pray my kids never have to deal with major health issues, but I know if they do – a relationship with God is the best medicine for them (and me).
Encouraging Scripture
Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.
2 Corinthians 4:16
Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything
James 1:2-4
