Unproven Therapies for Diabetes and Their Implications

Abstract

Diabetes is a chronic disease and is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Being an ancient disease, many individuals follow complementary and alternative medicinal (CAM) therapies for either the cure or prevention of the disease. The popularity of these practices among the general public is in no way a testimony to their safety and efficacy. Due to the possibility of undesirable interactions with conventional medicines, it is imperative that patients are asked about CAM use during patient assessment. Patient- and physician-targeted awareness programs on various aspects of CAM use must be initiated to create a better understanding of evidence-based use of these practices. In addition, there should be guidelines in place based on clinical trial outcomes, and stricter regulations need to be enforced on CAM practices to ensure their safety and effectiveness.

Herbal medicine from the perspective of type II diabetic patients and physicians: what is the relationship?

“…Diabetes causes one death every 6 sec with death cases (5 million), a rate higher than all deaths from human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) (1.5 million), tuberculosis (1.5 million) and malaria (0.6 million) combined. If left untreated, diabetes can lead to potential complications that include damage in organs such as the kidneys, heart, eyes, blood vessels and nerves [15].…”

“…Another reason for using herbs is their concern about possible side effects caused by conventional therapies. This is because these patients believe that herbal remedies from natural sources are safer and more effective [15].…”

Living with Diabetes: A Woman’s Perspective

“…A similar scene was being played out at my uncles' and aunts' homes. Whenever they met, discussion would revolve around diabetes care, especially complementary and alternative medicine, 5 and around cost of therapy. Everyone would Letter to the Editor then refresh themselves with a hearty meal or snack, cooked in true Punjabi style, and conclude with a philosophical "whatever will happen, will happen" statement.…”

Interaction, information, involvement (the 3I strategy): Rebuilding trust in the medical profession

“…Not all the drugs and formulations marketed by these systems are evidence based. [9] This is especially true for chronic diseases such as diabetes. Unfortunately, aggressive media marketing by some vested interests leads to confusion among health-care consumers and prevents proper utilization of modern medical care.…”