Lance Bass Shares His Journey with Type 1.5 Diabetes and His Stem Cell Experiment

• Pop star Lance Bass opens up about his battle with type 1.5 diabetes.
• Initially, Bass was misdiagnosed with type 2 diabetes, leading to complications.
• He has embraced a continuous glucose monitor and is experimenting with stem cell therapy.

“Patient education is my priority,” Bass told Healthline. “I want people who are dealing with similar diagnoses to feel less afraid and more understood.”

Type 1.5 diabetes, or latent autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA), shares some traits with type 1 diabetes but progresses more slowly, often masquerading as type 2 diabetes.

“LADA typically develops in adults over 30, and unlike classic type 1 diabetes, it involves a gradual destruction of insulin-producing cells, which often requires insulin therapy within a decade,” says Scott Isaacs, MD, president-elect of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinology.

Karl Nadolsky, DO, an endocrinologist and diplomate at the American Board of Obesity Medicine, clarifies that “type 1.5 diabetes falls between type 1 and type 2 diabetes in terms of causes and treatment approaches.”

While type 1 diabetes immediately necessitates insulin, LADA patients may initially respond to oral medications before transitioning to insulin. Type 2 diabetes management starts with lifestyle adjustments and oral drugs, with insulin possibly needed later.

Bass underwent regular health check-ups, typically a standard blood panel every six months. When his initial diagnosis suggested type 2 diabetes, his medical team focused on managing his condition through medication rather than insulin.

“After three years, when my glucose levels weren’t improving, I sought a second opinion,” Bass recalls. “The second set of doctors carefully analyzed my blood work and identified the rare type 1.5 diabetes, which explained my symptoms more accurately.”

His diagnosis was marked by periods of severe fatigue and mobility issues. “Having a specific explanation for these symptoms was a huge relief,” he says. “I felt reassured and knew I was doing the right thing to take control of my health.”

Insulin dependence became necessary for Bass. “Now that I understand the cause and progression of my diabetes, I can manage my glucose levels effectively,” he explains. “It has taken time, but I’m adapting and learning how to live with it.”

Bass wears a Dexcom G7 continuous glucose monitor to track his blood sugar levels. “When my Dexcom sends a low-glucose alert, it’s as if a fire truck is pulling up outside,” he jokes. “My husband Michael is always quick to action, bringing me juice or water.”

“With my Dexcom G7, I get real-time updates every five minutes,” Bass says. “This allows me to be cautious at celebrations and eat responsibly. For example, I can decide if a slice of cake is safe based on my glucose levels.”

Hydration plays a crucial role in Bass’ management regimen. “Drinking lots of water helps bring my glucose readings down,” he explains. “I aim to consume three large jugs of water daily to aid this process.”

Diet and exercise are also part of Bass’ routine. “Increasing dietary fiber has reduced the spikes in my sugar levels,” he notes. “Electrolyte supplements have helped maintain balance as well.”

Exercise, specifically resistance training, has shown significant benefits. “When I lift weights, my sugar levels drop as my muscles absorb the glucose,” Bass shares. “It’s great to see the difference it makes.”

Bass initially struggled with the realization that he had a chronic condition. “I felt invincible, so finding out about diabetes was incredibly shocking and took time to accept,” he admits.

However, as he learned more about his diagnosis, his perspective shifted. “Modern treatments and devices like the Dexcom are really empowering,” he says. “I’m not afraid of the future now that I have a better grasp on managing my condition.”

He sees a silver lining in his diabetes journey. “It’s motivated me to take better care of myself and live a healthier lifestyle,” Bass reflects. “I wouldn’t have put as much effort into these habits otherwise.”

Bass has begun experimenting with stem cell therapy. “I was injected with 90 million stem cells two weeks ago,” he details. “I hope this will reduce my reliance on insulin over time.”

The non-invasive procedure lasted only 15 minutes. “You barely feel anything, and it’s thrilling to think about the potential benefits,” Bass expresses. “I’m optimistic but cautious, crossing my fingers for positive outcomes.”

Bass’ interest in cutting-edge treatments stems from his passion for science. “I’m fascinated by the advancements in medical research,” he says. “I’m eager to see how this therapy might affect my body in the future.”