Prevalence and Metabolic Profile of Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults LADA in Early-Onset Type 2 Diabetes in South India

Abstract Background: Latent autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA) represents a unique form of diabetes that shares features with both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. Early identification is crucial for optimal management. Objective: The objective of the study was to determine the prevalence of LADA among early-onset type 2 diabetes patients in South India using GADA testing and characterize their clinical and metabolic profiles. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study included 180 patients aged 25–40 years with early-onset diabetes. Participants underwent comprehensive clinical evaluation, anthropometric measurements, and biochemical testing including FBS, GADA, C-peptide, and insulin levels. GADA positivity (≥1.00 U/mL) defined LADA cases. Results: The prevalence of LADA was 32.2%. LADA patients showed significantly lower BMI (normal weight range) compared to early-onset type 2 diabetes patients (overweight/obese range) ( P < 0.01). LADA patients exhibited higher fasting blood glucose levels with lower insulin and C-peptide levels ( P < 0.01). Multiple logistic regression identified lower BMI (OR: 0.84, 95% CI: 0.76–0.92), higher FBS (OR: 1.12, 95% CI: 1.04–1.20), and lower C-peptide levels (OR: 0.38, 95% CI: 0.24–0.58) as independent predictors of LADA. Conclusion: The high prevalence of LADA in this young diabetic population in our study underlines the importance of GADA testing for early diagnosis and intervention in young onset diabetes. The distinct metabolic profile of LADA patients suggests the need for tailored therapeutic approaches in these patients.