Awareness on alternative medical systems among diabetes mellitus patients in Uva and North Central provinces; Mullaithivu, Mannar and Killinochchi districts in the Northern Province

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Diabetes Mellitus is a metabolic disorder due to deficiency of insulin. According to Ayurveda concepts this is part of urinary disorders characterized by profuse urination with several abnormal qualities due to Dhosic imbalances. According to the Siddha concept Alaldhosha increase first, then Walidhosha increase, afterwards Wali and Aryamdhoshas is increased. Concurrently disturbance of seven Dhathus function occur and eliminate body energy through urine. The concept of Unani that mentioned Zinbatusshukkari (Diabetes Mellitus) develops due to weakness of the kidney as a result of strong exposures power, weakness of the retentive power and causative factors. Prevention is the best method to control this disease. Awareness among people should be increased to prevent this disease. All medical systems should combine efforts. Other than allopathic system Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani are other alternative medical systems that can provide awareness. OBJECTIVE: To find out awareness of people about other alternative medical systems that can control Diabetes Mellitus and to find out method of continuing treatment at diabetes clinics in these medical systems. METHODS: An interviewer administered questionnaire was used to collect data visiting Sidda, Unani, Ayurveda District Hospitals, Central Dispensaries and free Ayurveda Dispensaries in Uva province, North central province, Killinochhi, Mannar,and Mullaithivu districts. RESULTS: There were few hospitals that provide Diabetic clinics (Uva-20%, North central -11%, Killinochchi, Mannar and Mullaithivu districts -25%). Of 40 patients identified from clinics only 50% of patients were aware of Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani treatments for Diabetes. CONCLUSIONS: Availability of alternative medical facilities for management of Diabetes Mellitus is limited in these districts. The awareness of people about these systems is not satisfactory.