The rare form of diabetes is believed to affect about 25 million people globally, and is caused by malnutrition-induced low insulin production among lean and malnourished teenagers and young adults in low and middle-income households.

According to experts, the IDF’s recognition of it as ‘Type 5 diabetes’ is an important step toward raising awareness of a health problem that is so devastating to so many people.

We spoke to Dr. Chris van Straten, Global Health Advisor of Clinical Governance at International SOS and Dr. Patrick Ngassa Piotie, public health expert and Chairperson Diabetes Alliance.