Frequency of use of Indian systems of Medicine and homeopathy among diabetic patients in Chennai (CURES-80)

Abstract

It is believed that a significant number of Indian diabetic patients use Indian System of Medicines and Homeopathy (ISM&H) to control their blood sugar levels. An earlier study suggested that ‘no side effects and low cost of treatment’ were the main reasons for people preferring ISM&H.[1] Other reasons quoted for widespread use of Complementary and Alternative Medicines (CAM) by patients with diabetes mellitus was their expectation of early and maximum benefit.[2] One hospital-based study showed that 67% of patients were using CAM, including ISM&H.[3]However, hospital-based studies are subject to referral bias. To our knowledge, there is no population based data on this aspect. The aim of the present study was to assess the use of ISM&H among diabetic patients in Chennai.