Latent Autoimmune Diabetes and Long-Term Disability Claims: What You Need to Know

Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults (LADA) is often called “type 1.5 diabetes” because it shares characteristics of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. What sets LADA apart is its gradual progression and the fact that it’s often misdiagnosed as type 2 diabetes. Because the autoimmune destruction of insulin-producing cells progresses slowly, symptoms can seem manageable for a time, but LADA can eventually lead to severe functional limitations that impair the ability to work.

If you have been diagnosed with LADA, you may be wondering whether you qualify for long-term disability benefits. This article will help you understand how LADA affects your ability to work and what it takes to build a strong LTD claim.

What Is LADA? Causes, Symptoms, and Progression

LADA is an autoimmune condition where the body attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, like type 1 diabetes. But, unlike classic type 1 diabetes that begins in childhood or adolescence, LADA develops in adulthood and progresses more slowly.

Common signs and symptoms include:

• Frequent urination and increased thirst
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fatigue and low energy
• Blurred vision

Over time, LADA leads to insulin dependence as the cells are gradually destroyed. Misdiagnosis can delay proper treatment, increasing the risk of long-term complications like neuropathy, retinopathy, and kidney disease.

Is LADA Considered a Disability?

Yes, LADA can be considered a disabling condition under most long-term disability insurance policies. The key to qualifying is demonstrating how your specific limitations impact your occupational duties.

How LADA Can Limit Your Ability to Work

While some people with LADA manage their condition effectively, others may experience significant work limitations due to unstable blood glucose levels and related complications. These functional impairments can vary based on job type:

• Physically Demanding Jobs: Risk of hypoglycemic episodes, fatigue, and neuropathy may make physical labor unsafe or impossible.
• Sedentary or Office Jobs: Frequent breaks for insulin management, concentration issues due to blood sugar swings, or vision problems may affect productivity.
• Jobs Requiring Driving or Operating Machinery: Hypoglycemia poses a serious safety risk.

Complications like peripheral neuropathy, chronic fatigue, and visual impairments can severely impact one’s ability to maintain consistent attendance and perform essential job functions.

Medical Evidence Needed to Support a LADA Disability Claim

Comprehensive medical documentation is essential to support a disability claim for latent autoimmune diabetes. Important evidence includes:

• Lab results showing autoantibodies (e.g., GAD antibodies) and C-peptide levels to distinguish LADA from type 2 diabetes
• Blood glucose monitoring logs showing fluctuations and episodes of hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia
• Treatment history, including insulin therapy, medications, and specialist care
• Physician statements detailing work-related restrictions and the unpredictability of symptoms
• Records of complications like neuropathy or vision loss

Claimants should maintain consistent treatment and regular endocrinologist visits to show compliance and ongoing severity.

Common Challenges in LADA Disability Claims

Long-term disability claims for latent autoimmune diabetes often face unique hurdles:

• Misdiagnosis: Insurers may argue the condition is mild type 2 diabetes, downplaying its severity.
• Lack of Objective Evidence: Symptoms like fatigue and hypoglycemia may not be well-documented.
• Improvement with Treatment: Claims may be denied on the basis that insulin therapy should stabilize symptoms.
• Surveillance or Peer Reviews: Insurance companies might use surveillance or biased medical reviews to dispute the claim.

Early, accurate diagnosis and detailed documentation can help counter these obstacles.

Case Example: Jennifer, a Graphic Designer with LADA

Jennifer, age 44, was diagnosed with LADA after several years of being treated for type 2 diabetes. Despite following her treatment plan, she experienced erratic blood sugar swings, fatigue, and frequent vision disturbances. Her job as a graphic designer required sharp vision and concentration, which became increasingly difficult. After many absences and errors at work, she applied for LTD benefits. Her claim was initially denied, with the insurer stating her condition was “well-controlled.”

With support from a long-term disability attorney, Jennifer submitted records from her endocrinologist, daily glucose logs, and functional capacity evaluations. Her attorney highlighted how her unpredictable symptoms affected her ability to perform her occupation. On appeal, the insurance company overturned the denial and approved her benefits.

How an LTD Attorney Can Help

Navigating a disability claim for LADA requires a strong understanding of the condition and how it affects your ability to work. A long-term disability attorney can:

• Review denial letters and insurance policies
• Gather and organize medical and vocational evidence
• Get detailed physician statements and vocational expert opinions
• File appeals and, if needed, pursue litigation against the insurer

The Ortiz Law Firm has extensive experience handling disability claims involving complex medical conditions like LADA. We help clients across the country with appeals and lawsuits after LTD denials.

Need Help with a LADA Long-Term Disability Claim?

If your long-term disability claim for latent autoimmune diabetes has been denied or terminated, you don’t have to face the insurance company alone. The Ortiz Law Firm offers nationwide representation and personalized support. Call us at (888) 321-8131 to schedule your free consultation and learn how we can help you move forward.