In 1992, I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. I was just a child and had no idea what it meant! I soon realised that the autoimmune condition where the body mistakenly attacks its own insulin-producing cells is shrouded in myths and misconceptions. One of the most pervasive falsehoods is the belief that type 1 diabetes can be cured, or that it is caused by sugar intake.
The battle against health misinformation continues unabated in 2024. Despite the strides in medical advancements, deceptive claims of curing type 1 diabetes still find their way, preying on the hopes of those affected. Alarmingly, quacks openly advertise false cures on digital platforms without legal repercussions, highlighting the dire state of health misinformation.
It is against this backdrop that my not-for-profit initiative called Diabetes Fighters’ Trust, strengthened by community ownership and wonderful women-led team, aims to cut through health myths, providing clear, evidence-based information to the community. Over the past seven years, by educating people about the realities of type 1 diabetes, the organisation has helped reduce the stigma and empowered those affected to manage their condition effectively.
My commitment to this cause is deeply personal, spurred by the loss of a young girl in Chandigarh whose life was tragically cut short due to her family’s refusal of insulin therapy. However, the issue of misinformation is not confined to type 1 diabetes alone. A multitude of medical conditions are adversely affected by the spread of inaccurate information, which can lead to delayed treatments, improper care, and an increased burden on the healthcare system. Conditions ranging from mental health disorders to chronic diseases such as hypertension and cancer are subject to the detrimental effects of these misconceptions.
The propagation of misinformation, stigma, or disinformation creates barriers for patients in accessing timely and appropriate care, thereby impeding the work of healthcare professionals. By actively countering these pervasive myths, we contribute not only to the betterment of individual health outcomes, but also to the progress of the overall healthcare system. This proactive approach paves the way for a more informed and healthier society.
As a member of First Check, I understand the critical need for accurate health information and the power of evidence-based storytelling to effect change. The fight against misinformation is ongoing, but with perseverance and informed advocacy, it is a battle that can be won.
Mridula Kapil Bhargava
Founder- Diabetes Fighters' Trust & CareOll Life, India
