Professional Area

Monogenic Diabetes

What is monogenic diabetes?

  • Monogenic diabetes is a rare kind of diabetes that is exclusively attributed to a single gene modification and is brought on by certain genetic alterations
  • Monogenic diabetes comes in various types, including:
    • Neonatal Diabetes Mellitus: Identified in the first 6 months of life, it may be temporary, in which case blood sugar levels return to normal during infancy, or it may be chronic and require lifetime treatment
    • A subset of monogenic diabetes types known as maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY) often manifests during childhood, adolescence, or early adulthood
    • Congenital hyperinsulinism, mitochondrial diabetes, and Wolfram syndrome are a few more uncommon types of monogenic diabetes that each have their own unique nature

How is it diagnosed and managed?

  • Genetic testing is critical in verifying the diagnosis of monogenic diabetes and identifying the exact genetic mutation by an endocrinologist and a genetic counsellor
  • Once the genetic mutation has been detected, your specialist will create a treatment plan that is tailored to your personal needs
  • Depending on the kind of monogenic diabetes and its features, the treatment plan may include lifestyle changes, medication, or insulin therapy
  • Maintain frequent check-ups with your healthcare practitioner to monitor your blood sugar levels
  • Review your overall health, and make any necessary changes to your treatment plan • Attend diabetic education programs or consult with a professional
  • Adapt habitssuch as a balanced diet, frequent physical activity, stress reduction, and adequate sleep
  • Because monogenic diabetes can be passed down through generations, genetic testing for family members is recommended, especially if a large number of people are affected or diabetes runs in the family
  • Inform your family, friends, and caretakers about your sickness and emergency care

Note:

This leaflet is for informational purposes only and is not a replacement for medical advice. Always consult with your doctor for personalized guidance. Seek immediate medical assistance if you experience any of the high-risk symptoms.