Malnutrition-Related Diabetes, recently designated as Type 5 diabetes mellitus by the International Diabetes Federation, is an emerging subtype affecting adolescents and young adults in low- and middle-income countries. It develops from chronic undernutrition beginning in utero and continuing through childhood, resulting in impaired pancreatic development and severe insulin deficiency. Unlike type 1 diabetes, it is non-autoimmune; unlike type 2 diabetes, it is not driven by insulin resistance or obesity, but by the long-term impact of food insecurity, maternal undernutrition, and repeated infections.

As global diabetes prevalence rises, with projections reaching 853 million people by 2050 understanding this subtype is increasingly important. As a newly recognized condition, the evidence base continues to evolve. This session will review current literature and summarize its pathophysiology, metabolic characteristics, and clinical features.

With increased global migration, dietitians in high-income countries may encounter individuals whose diabetes does not match traditional T1 or T2 patterns, while dietitians in low- and middle-income countries play a central role in identifying and managing the condition where it is most prevalent. Presenters will outline how RDNs and NDTRs across global practice settings can recognize Type 5 diabetes and apply culturally relevant nutrition rehabilitation and prevention strategies for this underserved population.