Type 5 Diabetes (T5DM) has been recognised by the International Diabetes Federation in 2025 as a distinct form of diabetes associated with prolonged undernutrition. It primarily affects young, lean individuals in developing countries, often with a body mass index below 18.5.

Unlike other types, it is non-autoimmune and results from early-life nutritional deficiency that impairs pancreatic function, leading to reduced insulin production. The condition is marked by low BMI and absence of autoimmune markers, highlighting the link between malnutrition and metabolic disorders.

APSC Relevance: Important for health, nutrition and emerging disease classifications.

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