Diabetes Type Assessment Tool | Figuring Out Diabetes

Your Diagnosis Profile

Age at diagnosis years

BMI at diagnosis kg/m^2 - leave blank if unknown

How did symptoms start?

Family history of Type 2 diabetes

Known autoimmune condition e.g. thyroid, coeliac, vitiligo

Ketones present at diagnosis

Insulin requirement

Assessment Result

Complete all fields above to see your diabetes type assessment.

How The Scoring Works

This tool uses a weighted indicator model based on clinical features that distinguish diabetes types. Each answer adds positive or negative weight to Type 1/LADA versus Type 2 indicators.

T1/LADA score: sudden onset (+3), ketones (+3), early insulin (+3), autoimmune (+2), young age (+2)
T2 score: gradual onset (+3), high BMI (+3), T2 family history (+2), older age (+2), no ketones (+1)

Scores are normalised to a percentage. LADA is flagged when T1 indicators are moderate but age at diagnosis is over 35. This is not a validated diagnostic tool - it reflects probability patterns seen in published clinical literature.

Understanding Diabetes Types

Type 1 Diabetes

An autoimmune condition where the immune system destroys insulin-producing beta cells. Requires insulin from diagnosis. Can occur at any age but typically presents earlier. Often sudden onset with ketones.

Type 2 Diabetes

Results from insulin resistance and progressive beta cell dysfunction. Strongly associated with lifestyle factors, BMI, age, and family history. Typically gradual onset. Initially managed with diet, exercise, and oral medications.

LADA (Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults)

Often called "Type 1.5" - autoimmune like T1 but slower progression. Frequently misdiagnosed as Type 2. Diagnosed via GAD antibody testing. Responds poorly to sulphonylureas; requires insulin eventually.

Why Correct Typing Matters

Wrong type classification leads to wrong treatment. LADA misdiagnosed as T2 and treated with sulphonylureas can accelerate beta cell loss. Type 1 mismanaged without insulin is life-threatening. Your diabetes type determines your treatment pathway.

! Medical Disclaimer
This assessment is for educational purposes only and cannot diagnose or confirm diabetes type. Definitive type classification requires clinical antibody tests (GAD65, IA-2, ZnT8), C-peptide levels, and evaluation by a qualified healthcare professional. Do not change your treatment plan based on this tool alone.