History of Diabetes

The word diabetes mellitus is derived from the Greek word “siphon”, “millitus” from the Latin word sweetness. The earliest known record of diabetes was in 1552 B.C. by physician Hesy-Ra who mentions polyuria (a condition of frequent urination) as a symptom. It was first describe in the 1st Century A.D by Arateus as “the melting down of flesh and limbs into urine.”

16th century

In the 16th century, Paracelsus identifies diabetes as a serious general disorder. French physician, Bouchardat, noticed the disappearance of glycosuria in his diabetes patients during rationing of food in Paris. He then formulated an idea of individualized diets for his diabetic patients, in 1870.

Paul Langerhans, a German medical student, announces in a dissertation that the pancreas contains two systems of cells. One secretes the normal pancreatic juice. The function of other one is unknown. Several years later it was identified as the “islet of Langerhans.”

19th century

In the 19th century, French researcher Claude Bernard studies the workings of the pancreas and the glycogen metabolism of the liver.

A Czech researcher, I.V. Pavlov discovers the links between the nervous system and gastric secretion. He makes a very good contribution of the Physiology of the digestive system.

“Fad diabetes diet” is introduce that includes “oat-cure” a diet made up of oatmeal, milk diet, rice cure , potato therapy and even the use of opium.

In 1908 a German scientist, Georg Zuelzer develops the first injectable pancreatic extract to surpass glycosuria, but there are extreme side effects to the treatment.

Frederick Madison Allen, publishes ” Studies Concerning Glycosuria and Diabetes” in 1913, a book which is a significant for the revolution in diabetes therapy. And in 1919 the first treatment clinic in the USA, the Physiatric Institute in New Jersey was established, to treat patient with diabetes, high blood pressure and Bright’s disease by Allen.

“Insulin” is discovered as treatment for diabetes. Oral drugs are introduced to help lower blood glucose levels. And it was 1959 when two major types of diabetes are recognized: Type 1 diabetes (insulin-dependent) and Type 2 diabetes (non-insulin dependent). Blood glucose meters and insulin pumps are developed. Laser therapy is used to help slow or prevent blindness in people with diabetes.

In 1993 “Diabetes Control and Complications Trial” (DCCT) reports are published. It demonstrates intensive therapy and delays the onset and progression of long-term complications in patients with Type 1 diabetes.

Lastly in 1998 “The United Kingdom Prospective Diabetes Study” (UKPDS) is published, results show that clearly identify the importance of good glucose control and good blood pressure control in the delay and /or prevention of complication in Type 2 diabetes.