Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is gaining traction worldwide, especially among individuals managing chronic health conditions such as type-2 diabetes mellitus. The recent study conducted by Thilakarathna et al. sheds light on the prevalence and patterns of CAM use among patients diagnosed with this metabolic disorder within a suburban tertiary healthcare center located in Sri Lanka. As the world leans toward integrative health approaches, understanding the usage of CAM in this demographic is not just pertinent but also urgently needed.
Type-2 diabetes mellitus, a condition characterized by insulin resistance and elevated blood sugar levels, affects millions globally. Its complications can be severe, including cardiovascular disease, neuropathy, and even amputation. Given the chronic nature of the condition and the lifelong management it requires, many patients explore diverse avenues for relief and empowerment. The exploration of CAM is one such avenue that offers potential benefits, bridging gaps created by conventional medical treatments.
In their research, Thilakarathna and colleagues have identified that a significant portion of the patient population at the suburban center participates in CAM practices. Interestingly, the study reveals that many patients resort to these alternative methods not merely as a supplement to traditional treatments but as a primary form of healthcare. This inclination raises intriguing questions about patient perceptions of conventional medicine’s efficacy, safety, and accessibility.
The study employed a comprehensive methodological approach, incorporating both qualitative and quantitative analyses. Researchers conducted surveys among patients attending the healthcare facility, gathering extensive data on the types of CAM practices used, their frequency, and perceived benefits. This rigor ensures that findings reflect the reality faced by these patients, providing invaluable insights into the nuanced relationship between chronic illness management and alternative therapies.
One might wonder what specific forms of CAM were most popular among the study’s participants. Preliminary findings indicate a notable interest in natural supplements, herbal remedies, and dietary modifications. For instance, herbs such as cinnamon and fenugreek are frequently mentioned for their purported benefits in glucose regulation. Furthermore, many patients reported favorable experiences with yoga and meditation as methods for achieving better emotional and stress-related management of their condition, thereby enhancing their overall well-being.
The motivations behind CAM utilization among these patients are multifaceted. Many patients describe seeking a sense of control over their health, particularly in the face of a disease that can feel overwhelming and unmanageable. Additionally, the perception that traditional medicine is inadequate or fraught with adverse effects drives patients to explore alternatives that seem more holistic. This reflects a broader trend where patients prioritize personal health journeys and individualized care pathways.
Moreover, cultural factors play a substantial role in shaping patients’ openness to CAM. In Sri Lanka, traditional herbal medicine has deep roots in local practices, often revered for its historical and cultural significance. Such cultural acceptance may foster an environment where patients feel more comfortable integrating these remedies into their treatment regimens. However, this integration raises concerns about the potential interactions between CAM and conventional medications, emphasizing the necessity for healthcare providers to address these practices openly.
While the motivations for CAM use may be commendable, the study also highlights a crucial gap in communication. Many healthcare providers may not routinely engage patients in discussions about CAM, leaving patients to navigate this complex landscape alone. The lack of dialogue can lead to unreported CAM usage, which in turn can impact treatment outcomes and patient safety. It underscores the importance of a collaborative approach in patient care, where discussions about alternative and complementary methods become a standard part of healthcare delivery.
The findings of Thilakarathna et al. also suggest that there is a need for greater education and awareness about CAM among healthcare professionals. By understanding the variations in patients’ attitudes and choices regarding alternative medicine, practitioners can better serve their communities. Enhancing the skill set of medical professionals to include knowledge of CAM might also lead to more informed discussions with patients, ultimately contributing to improved management of diabetes.
Moreover, public health initiatives aimed at educating patients about both the benefits and risks of CAM could be instrumental in ensuring safe practices. Recognizing the popularity of herbal remedies and dietary supplements in the context of diabetes care, it becomes imperative to provide evidence-based education. Patients equipped with knowledge regarding the efficacy, safety, and interaction of CAM with their existing treatments can make more informed decisions in their healthcare journeys.
Looking ahead, this research opens up numerous avenues for future investigations. Understanding the long-term outcomes of integrating CAM with conventional treatments, especially in chronic conditions like type-2 diabetes, is vital. While current findings lay the groundwork, more profound insights could inform strategies for optimizing diabetes management, potentially leading to enhanced quality of life for patients.
In summary, the study by Thilakarathna et al. is a critical contribution to the understanding of complementary and alternative medicine usage among type-2 diabetes patients in a Sri Lankan context. The prevailing trends identified offer a lens into the shifting paradigms of health and healing where traditional medicine and alternative approaches coexist. It highlights the urgent need for healthcare collaboration that respects patients’ choices, encourages open dialogue, and fosters a comprehensive understanding of how best to support those living with chronic illnesses. Ultimately, as the landscape of healthcare continues to evolve, interdisciplinary approaches will be key in facilitating patient empowerment and promoting holistic well-being for all.
Subject of Research: Use of complementary and alternative medicine among patients with type-2 diabetes mellitus.
Article Title: Complementary and alternative medicine use among patients with type-2 diabetes mellitus attending a suburban tertiary healthcare centre in Sri Lanka.
Article References:
Thilakarathna, M., Appuhami, K., Darshana, N. et al. Complementary and alternative medicine use among patients with type-2 diabetes mellitus attending a suburban tertiary healthcare centre in Sri Lanka.
BMC Complement Med Ther 25, 363 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12906-025-05077-5
Image Credits: AI Generated
DOI: 10.1186/s12906-025-05077-5
Keywords: Type-2 diabetes, Complementary medicine, Alternative medicine, Patient care, Herbal remedies, Diabetes management, Healthcare communication, Sri Lanka.
