Maturity Onset Diabetes of the Young (MODY)
Maturity Onset Diabetes of the Young (MODY) is a rare form of diabetes caused by a mutation in a single gene. It is different from both type 1 and type 2 diabetes and tends to run strongly in families. MODY typically develops before the age of 25, regardless of a person’s weight, lifestyle, or ethnicity.
In Kenya, MODY is very rare, and many people with it are often misdiagnosed as having type 1 or type 2 diabetes. If a parent has the gene mutation that causes MODY, there is a 50% chance of passing it on to their children.
Key Features of MODY
The key features of MODY include:
- Diagnosis before the age of 25
- A family history of diabetes, with the condition being present in at least two generations
- Not always requiring insulin for treatment
Because MODY is so rare, it’s often misdiagnosed. If you or someone in your family has been diagnosed with diabetes under 25 but does not fit the typical type 1 or type 2 diabetes profile, you may want to discuss the possibility of MODY with your doctor.
Types of MODY
There are several types of MODY, depending on which gene is affected. The most common types include:
- HNF1-alpha MODY: This is the most common type, affecting around 70% of people with MODY. It reduces the pancreas’s ability to produce insulin. Most people with this type can be treated with sulfonylurea tablets instead of insulin.
- HNF4-alpha MODY: This type is less common and can be identified by a higher birth weight and low blood sugar shortly after birth. Treatment typically starts with tablets, but insulin may be required later.
- HNF1-beta MODY: In addition to diabetes, people with this type may have kidney problems and uterine abnormalities. Insulin is typically required.
- Glucokinase MODY: This type causes slightly elevated blood sugar levels but usually does not require treatment. It is often discovered during routine testing, such as in pregnancy.
Managing MODY
Most types of MODY require careful monitoring of blood sugar levels, but treatment varies depending on the type. For some, insulin is necessary, while others may be able to manage the condition with tablets. Regardless of the type, following a healthy diet and staying active is crucial to managing MODY and reducing the risk of long-term complications.
Why It’s Important to Know If You Have MODY
Understanding if you have MODY is essential for receiving the correct treatment. Genetic testing can confirm whether you have the gene mutation responsible for MODY, and testing can also be offered to other family members.