Understanding Mild Age-Related Diabetes: Risks, Management, and Treatment

Mild Age-Related Diabetes (MARD) is a prominent subtype of type 2 diabetes, predominantly affecting individuals in their later years. It constitutes about 40% of all diabetes cases, making it the most common subtype. Recent studies have further refined our understanding of MARD by categorizing diabetes into subgroups based on clinical characteristics such as age at diagnosis, BMI, and insulin sensitivity. MARD is marked by a milder form of hyperglycemia and generally less severe insulin resistance compared to other subtypes like Severe Insulin-Resistant Diabetes (SIRD)​

Despite its milder nature, MARD still poses significant health risks. If poorly managed, it can lead to chronic complications, including cardiovascular disease and kidney damage. This makes early diagnosis and intervention critical. Data-driven studies highlight that MARD is prevalent in older populations, with an average age of diagnosis around 72. These individuals often exhibit moderate body mass indices and lower levels of insulin resistance​

Management of MARD focuses heavily on lifestyle interventions such as a balanced diet, regular exercise, and weight management. These strategies help maintain blood glucose levels and prevent progression to more severe health issues. In some cases, medication like metformin may be prescribed, although the milder nature of MARD often means that lifestyle changes alone can be highly effective​
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Research has also shown that individualized treatment strategies, tailored to the specific diabetes subtype, can enhance outcomes. This approach allows for more precise targeting of therapies, potentially reducing the risk of complications and improving the quality of life for those with MARD​.
Understanding Mild Age-Related Diabetes: Risks, Management, and Treatment