Busting Many Myths About Diabetes

Diabetes is one of the growing chronic public health problems worldwide, affecting millions of people. It affects people of all ages, sexes, ethnicities, and social classes in all regions of the world. Although this disease has existed since ancient times, it remains one of the most misunderstood ailments, surrounded by myths and outdated beliefs. The myths and beliefs have caused misunderstandings among people that often delay diagnosis and effective management, besides carrying a stigma. 

The most common misbelief is that diabetes results directly from eating excessive sugar. In fact, excess intake of sugar may lead to obesity, which is a major contributor to type 2 diabetes. However, it is not the sole cause, but diabetes is a constellation of many factors, ranging from genetic factors to sedentary lifestyle to poor diet. On the other hand, type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease and has nothing to do with sugar consumption. Moreover, sugar intake can worsen already existing diabetes, but a healthy diet with mindful consumption of sugar should be practiced for managing diabetes. 

Misconception

Another misconception that obese people get diabetes falsely reassures thin individuals, as they are safe from developing diabetes. It is a known fact that obesity significantly increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes; it is not the sole factor. Taking into consideration a familial history and genetic predisposition, many people with normal body weight can develop this condition. Therefore, excessive weight may be the predisposing factor, but we should not focus too much on it, as it may delay diagnosis in lean individuals. Hence, all people, regardless of size or shape, should be screened for diabetes when appropriate and be aware of it. 

People often have a misconception that diabetes is not a serious condition. In reality, it is a chronic condition and if not managed properly may lead to several devastating consequences such as heart disease, renal failure, blindness, neuropathy, and stroke. However, with timely diagnosis and appropriate management with lifestyle modification, most people with diabetes can live normal, healthy, and fulfilling life. Hence, seriousness of this condition should encourage people for prevention and control. 

The myths that people with diabetes must avoid all carbohydrates almost always brings fear to the people with diabetes. It should be noted that carbohydrates are an essential micronutrient and primary energy source for our body. Here, it is important to acknowledge the type and amount to be consumed once diagnosed with diabetes. The type that causes rapid spikes in blood sugar should be limited, and examples include white rice, sugary drinks, and sweets. On the other hand, complex carbohydrates, including whole grains, legumes, fruits, and vegetables, provide fibre and nutrients that actually assist in regulating blood glucose levels. Therefore, people with diabetes should plan for quality, potion control, and balanced nutrition rather that eliminating carbohydrates altogether. 

In many parts of the world, people believe that diabetes can be cured with natural or herbal remedies. The market for herbal or natural cures is rapidly growing in our part of the world in recent times. Moreover, there is no proven cure for diabetes but effective management exists that prevents from deterioration of health and well-being. However, some herbs or supplements may help in controlling blood sugar but should not replace medical management. Relying only in anecdotal reports may be dangerous and may lead to uncontrolled blood sugar that results in devastating consequences. It is therefore recommended to consult healthcare professionals before using any complementary treatments. 

There is always fear and uncertainty when diabetes is diagnosed first time. People often fear that their lives will be limited and will have to give up all the food delicacies and physical activity. This is a myth and with appropriate medical guidance, care, and lifestyle modifications, people with diabetes can have fulfilling lives and can enjoy food, work as a normal individual, travel and exercise as others. With the help of home-based glucose monitors and insulin pumps, the management of diabetes has become much easier nowadays. Therefore, by empowering people through education and support, it has turned into a manageable part of life, not a burden. 

Medication

People often have the fear that once they start a medication, they are dependent on it for life. This belief discourages early intervention, which is crucial for preventing complications. This misconception delays diagnosis and can lead to devastating consequences. Indeed, some individuals with type 2 diabetes can significantly improve their blood sugar control through weight loss, diet, and exercise, possibly reducing or even stopping medication under medical supervision. The most important tip is to think that medications are tools to manage, not a defeat of the disease. However, the condition can resurface when those factors are not under control.  

It is the moral and societal responsibility to bust myths and misconceptions about diabetes. It should be noted that misconceptions delay diagnosis, increase stigma, and cost of care. Despite modernisation of societies and healthcare, diabetes continues to rise particularly in developing nations, placing great burden on an already overstretched healthcare system. Our collective action should be directed towards awareness, empathy, and evidence. Hence, with this collective pledge using correct knowledge, improved healthcare systems, and informed choices, we can defeat myths surrounding diabetes and people 

with diabetes can have normal and fulfilling lives. 

(Dr. Lohani is the clinical director at the Nepal Poison Information Centre. lohanis@gmail.com)