Addressing the Myths, Misconceptions and Negativity About Diabetes in the Media
by Julia Baron

These days, it isn’t difficult to find a news story or segment about diabetes. This is no longer a disease that has gone unnoticed. In the past ten years, more and more startling statistics are coming to light about uncontrolled diabetes and its complications. It seems that everyone is jumping on the diabetes train, especially the news media. With such news stories as “Diabetes Cases Predicted to Skyrocket by 2020” or “White Rice May Cause Diabetes Risk,” it is no wonder that the public is now more frightened, confused and misinformed than ever. To boot, a past Oprah segment, which aired in February of 2010 featured only Dr. Oz and not one actual diabetes specialist. Not only were there a plethora of myths during the segment, but it also left the diabetes world less than thrilled with how the disease was portrayed and left the general public with information that was less than useful.

I myself don’t have diabetes. What I do have is a career, mentors, friends and family devoted to the cause. Since childhood, diabetes has always been talked about in my household. My father is an endocrinologist by trade and is currently involved in the biotech industry developing novel therapies for people with diabetes; my mother is an RN, CDE who has a gift for educating those with diabetes who were recently diagnosed; my uncle has lived with type one diabetes since the late 1950’s; and my boss and mentor, Dr. Edelman, has been living with diabetes since age 15. Since childhood, I have had a passion to learn more about and help people with diabetes. Unfortunately, not every layperson has this kind of access to information regarding diabetes. That’s where YOU come in.

When it comes to diabetes education, we at TCOYD make sure that we reach people with diabetes, as well as their families, friends and loved ones. One group we also consider to be important is the general public. By talking with other laypeople about diabetes, I have found that very few people know just what diabetes is and, to be honest, it’s not their fault. When asked where I work and what I do, I typically get the response “Oh, so the people you work with can’t have sugar” or “I heard diet and exercise can get rid of that.” Upon hearing things like that, I just want to shout, “Wrong, wrong and wrong again!” Since the public has been so inundated by the media with type 2 complications, type 1 scares and little positive news about the disease and its potential to be managed, it is no wonder people are getting the wrong idea.

If someone expresses a generalization or provides misinformation about diabetes, don’t get upset. Offer the truth and remind them that the media, although mostly credible, does not have all the answers. Here are a few scenarios that can arise in which you will have the opportunity to educate someone:

1. What kind of diabetes do you have? What is the difference? Is one more serious than the other?

Diabetes, both type 1 and 2, are chronic conditions that require 24/7 management. There is no known cure, but it can be controlled with proper medications, diet, exercise and harnessing the emotional side of the disease. The bottom line is, we all need insulin to survive and keep our body functioning properly and our blood sugars within normal range. With type 1 diabetes, the pancreas does not produce insulin, yet insulin is necessary for the body to be able to use glucose for energy. Therefore, insulin injections and regimens are needed to stay alive and avoid complications. In type 2 diabetes, explain that the body becomes resistant to insulin, and in time, may slowly stop producing insulin. Insulin and medications may be needed to control blood glucose levels and prevent complications.

2. Don’t most people who are obese have diabetes?

The answer is no. This is a common misconception that has been brought upon by the news media and the ever-growing number of people being diagnosed with type 2 (as it is the most common form of diabetes today). For starters, type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease that has no bearing on weight whatsoever. Obesity and sedentary lifestyles can lead to type 2 diabetes, but it is not always the case. Type 2 diabetes can be caused by family history and/or background. Studies have shown that people of Latino, Native American, Asian American and Pacific Islander decent are at a higher risk of type 2 diabetes. Yes, obesity can be a factor, but it isn’t a diagnosis of diabetes.

3. Can’t type 2 diabetes be cured?

While type 2 diabetes can be prevented for those at risk, the the answer is a resounding no. This is a newer misconception that the media has popularized, especially when it comes to celebrities. Recently, actor Drew Carey was said to have been “cured” of diabetes. This sent a shockwave through the diabetes community because it was a stark misrepresentation of the effects of diet and weight loss on type 2 diabetes. Even the reputable CBS news reported that Carey “Shed His Diabetes.”

Diabetes, unfortunately, is for life. It can however, be treated and managed so that the person with diabetes can live a healthy life, free of complications. It isn’t rare for people with type 2 diabetes to lose weight and, eventually, not need medication. That doesn’t mean you don’t still have diabetes, it just means you are under good control.

4. Is it true that people with Type 1 diabetes can’t eat sugar or carbs?

The answer to this is also no. Sugar and carbohydrates are a part of things we eat every day including fruit, which is categorized as “healthy.” People living with type 1 diabetes can certainly have carbohydrates and sugar. Like most people, they can have them in moderation. People without diabetes can eat all the candy and carbs they want and eventually, their body will regulate their blood sugars. For people who are insulin dependent, a proper dose of insulin at mealtime must be used, especially in anticipation of a high carb or sugar meal. This doesn’t mean the two are off limits.

Of course there are many more bogus claims circulating out there, but unless we educate those around us about diabetes, the stories will keep coming and keep perpetuating. Remember, be patient, and above all, be an educator. Everyone deserves to be educated about diabetes, not only for themselves, but for their family and friends, too!

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