Lance Bass Reveals Shock Type 1.5 Diabetes Misdiagnosis
Pop star Lance Bass recently shocked fans by revealing that he was misdiagnosed with Type 2 diabetes for years. After battling to manage his symptoms despite diet and exercise changes, the *NSYNC member learned he actually has Type 1.5 diabetes, also known as Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults (LADA).
Bass’ journey sheds light on a lesser-known diabetes type often misdiagnosed as Type 2. Initially diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes a few years ago, he struggled to regulate his blood sugar despite lifestyle modifications and medication.
“When I was first diagnosed, I had a difficult time getting my glucose levels under control even though I made adjustments to my diet, my medications and my workout routine,” Bass shared. “Things just weren’t adding up.”
This puzzled Bass, leading him to question his own health. “You just feel like there’s something wrong with you. How am I broken? Why can no one can figure this out?”
Ultimately, a continuous glucose monitor provided the critical insight needed for a correct diagnosis.
“It was only when I started using a continuous glucose monitor that doctors were able to see that my blood sugar readings weren’t typical for Type 2 diabetes and diagnosed me with Type 1.5,” Bass explained.
### Understanding Type 1.5 Diabetes
Like Type 1 diabetes, Type 1.5 is an autoimmune disease where the body’s immune system attacks the cells in the pancreas responsible for insulin production. However, the progression is slower, and might not require insulin immediately.
“This destruction of beta cells [in the pancreas] occurs very slowly over many years, Said Dr. Saleh Adi, a pediatric endocrinologist and VP of medical affairs at Willow Laboratories.
“This results in a gradual loss of insulin secretion and an increase in blood glucose levels. Patients with LADA remain asymptomatic for years until there is significant loss of beta cells, or there is an increase in insulin resistance,” Dr. Adi continued.
This slow development often leads to Type 1.5 being mistaken for Type 2. Studies suggest that 4% to 12% of people diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes may actually have Type 1.5.
### Diagnostic Clues
Some key indicators might point towards Type 1.5 rather than Type 2:
* * **Family History:** Having another autoimmune condition or a close relative with one.
* * **Medication Resistance:** Blood glucose levels not improving despite Type 2 diabetes medications.
* * **Lack of Typical Type 2 Signs:** Absence of other Type 2 associated factors like obesity or insulin resistance.
A confirmed diagnosis requires identifying at least one pancreatic autoantibody and low C-peptide levels, indicating decreased insulin production.
### Management and Treatment
While there’s no proven way to prevent Type 1.5 diabetes, managing its symptoms is crucial. Initially, lifestyle modifications like healthy diet and exercise might suffice, but eventually, insulin therapy will likely be necessary as the body loses its ability to produce insulin.
According to Dr. Adi, early insulin intervention can help slow down beta cell destruction, making diabetes management easier and reducing the risk of hypoglycemia.
### A Need for More Awareness
Limited awareness around Type 1.5 diabetes and unclear diagnostic criteria contribute to the challenge of understanding the condition fully. More research, particularly in diverse populations, is essential to accurately determine its prevalence and optimize diagnosis and treatment strategies.
“Getting the right diagnosis helps people receive the most appropriate treatment, save money, and reduce diabetes distress,” notes The Conversation. “If you’re experiencing symptoms you think may indicate diabetes, or feel unsure about a diagnosis you’ve already received, monitor your symptoms and chat with your doctor.” (Reed, Axios, 10/21; Burch/Ball, The Conversation, 8/26; Radcliffe, Healthline, 8/8; McGorry, Fox News, 8/14)
Don’t ignore potential diabetes signs. If you experience unusual symptoms, consult your doctor for a thorough evaluation.