Sam Milby confirms Type 1.5 diabetes : ‘Nakaka-sad’

ACTOR Sam Milby confirmed that he has been diagnosed with Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults (LADA), a form of Type 1 diabetes, following a recent medical evaluation in Singapore.

In an interview during the anniversary event of his talent agency Cornerstone Entertainment, Milby shared that he began looking into LADA after a fan suggested it in a social media comment.

“There was a fan who messaged, made a comment, ‘maybe you’re not Type 2 [diabetes], maybe you’re Type 1.5.’ So, I did my research also and I asked my endo,” he said. “I had my check-up also in Singapore, the doctors said that they’ll do a blood test to make sure, and it was confirmed.”

“It’s called LADA, it’s an autoimmune disease, and it means that I am diagnosed as Type 2, but eventually magiging Type 1 ako,” he added.

Sam acknowledged that the development was difficult to accept.

“It’s bad. Type 1 is the worst, Tito Gary [Valenciano] has Type 1. It means that your pancreas does not produce any insulin at all. So, I may have to start ‘yong insulin shots, eventually,” he said. “Nakaka-sad, but it’s a part of my life.”

The actor said both of his parents have diabetes, and his doctor also noted stress as a possible contributing factor.

“Lola’t lolo, walang diabetes. I don’t understand why. The doctor said that stress is actually a big factor on a lot of illnesses,” he said.

Despite the diagnosis, Sam said he remains committed to maintaining an active lifestyle and a strict diet.

“I’m trying to be more physically active. I’m trying to play pickleball… Sometimes, I run. Eating habits, I’m pretty strict with my diet,” he said, adding that he relies on shiratake rice and pasta as healthier alternatives.

According to Diabetes UK, LADA displays characteristics of both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes and is commonly diagnosed in adults aged 30 to 50. Symptoms may include frequent urination, excessive thirst, fatigue, and unintentional weight loss.