Type-2 diabetes is rapidly emerging as a major threat to global human health, and a growing problem in India – with close to 80 million people living with the disease, much of the challenge lies in the treatment and medication, especially in rural areas.
“South Asians develop diabetes earlier in life than people in western countries, so it's important to assess what lifestyle risk factors are apparent, and how they manage their condition,” says Dr Gupta, a lecturer in the School of Psychology and Public Health at La Trobe University. “Management of type-2 diabetes can vary greatly across India. Those living in urban areas generally eat more processed foods and exercise less than those in rural areas, which can aggravate their health issues.”
Dr Gupta has been exploring the self-management practices of people living with type 2 diabetes in Karnataka, India. Working with Dr Jency Thomas, Dr Markandeya Jois and Dr Peter Higgs at La Trobe University, Dr Clarice Tang at the University of Western Sydney, and collaborating with JSS Medical College in India, the project interviews patients, carers and health professionals.
Despite being a leading producer of pharmaceuticals with a considerable market of generic medications, evidence suggests that people living with diabetes in India prefer treatment with traditional medications over western medications and will often self-medicate.
“There is a lot of trust in traditional medications across India, and it transcends socioeconomic and educational backgrounds, as they were often recommended by friends and family members,” says Dr Gupta. “Traditional medications are perceived to have less side effects, less costly, and more readily available than western medications.”
One aspect of the study looked at the prescription of medications, including the engagement with subsidised generic medications available to Indians depending on their financial situation.
“Subsidised medications available through programs such as ‘Jan aushadhi’ can address the issue regarding the cost of western medicines, but there is a lack of knowledge among local pharmacists on the scheduling of certain medications,” says Dr Gupta. “Further regulation and education of health professionals is needed so that patients are confident that they’re prescribed an appropriate and affordable medication.”
A completed study review has highlighted that many participants were using traditional medications while simultaneously using western medications prescribed by their doctor. It is undetermined if traditional medications alone are sufficient to manage blood glucose levels.
