MYTHS AND FACTS ABOUT DIABETES MELLITUS AND ITS TREATMENT A HOSPITAL BASED SURVEY.

Abstract

ABSTRACT
INTRODUCTION: The frequency of Diabetes mellitus Type-II (T2DM) increased due to
increased obesity, physical inactivity, aging, increase population growth and urbanization.
OBJECTIVE: The present study aimed to explore knowledge and various myths related to
Diabetes mellitus and antidiabetic drugs in our population. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: A
descriptive cross sectional survey was conducted at the weekly diabetic clinic of Liaquat
University of Medical and Health Sciences Jamshoro during one-year period. A sample of 560
subjects was studied including both diabetics and non-diabetics. A pre-structured Proforma was
used to gather information. The questions regarding myths and knowledge about diabetes
mellitus and antidiabetic drugs were asked. The data was analyzed using the Statistics (USA
version 8.1.) computer software statistical package. The categorical variables were analyzed by
using student t - test and chi-square. RESULTS: Regarding the antidiabetic drug therapy, a
highly aberrant behavior of diabetics was noted. Only 42.2% of the diabetics were taking
antidiabetic drugs regularly, rest were using drugs as on-off or on-demand therapy. The myths
were noted as; Diabetics can take honey as it alleviates the blood sugar, herbal agents completely cure diabetes mellitus and diabetes is a disease of urine. The most dangerous myths were noted for the insulin therapy. Many diabetics responded that the insulin is a poison, which once started cannot be stopped. The insulin is used for those who are near to die and is not good for health. CONCLUSION: The myths and lack of proper knowledge of T2DM, widespread among population mighty be causative factor of increased morbidity and mortality.