1. Introduction: The unnoticed driver of cancer: insulin resistance
A long-term prostate cancer patient with diabetes, sought relief at SLNS Nature Cure Hospital. Instead of relying solely on medications, he embraced a personalized naturopathy regimen. His transformative journey showcases the power of holistic healthcare in addressing complex health conditions.
2. Patient Information:
Mr. Prabhakar, aged 77-year-old, has faced a lifetime of health challenges with remarkable resilience. With a longstanding history of diabetes and hypertension, his journey exemplifies endurance and determination.
In 2000, Prabhakar was diagnosed with diabetes after experiencing severe dizziness. Seeking help at the Government Hospital in Nizamabad, he began his medical journey. Prescribed Losartan 50 mg for blood pressure and Metformin 500 mg for diabetes, his dosages were gradually increased to manage his conditions effectively. Over the years, his regimen included Metformin 1000 mg, Metformin GP 1, and Metformin M2 G2, adapting to his evolving needs.
Despite the challenges, Prabhakar’s spirit remained undeterred. In 2022, under the guidance of Dr. Somnath at Yashoda Hospitals, Hyderabad, he began synthetic insulin therapy. Initially taking 35 units twice daily, his dosage was eventually reduced to 18 units, showcasing his adaptability and persistence.
However, his journey didn’t stop there. In the same year, Prabhakar faced increased frequency of urination and a painful burning sensation. Consulting Dr. Mallikarjuna Rao at the Asian Institute of Nephrology, Hyderabad, he was diagnosed with prostatic enlargement. This led to a critical decision: undergoing a prostatectomy. To prevent prostate cancer, he bravely completed 30 sessions of radiation therapy at Medicover Hospital, Hyderabad.
3.Medication History:
| S.No | Present medication | Medication (After treatment) | Mechanism of the drug |
| 1 | Carvedilol 6.25mg ( 1-0-1) | Tapered | β-blocker reduces heart rate and blood pressure, treating hypertension and heart failure. |
| 2 | Tamsulosin hydrochloride 0.4mg (1-0-0) | Tapered | Selective α1A adrenergic receptor antagonist improves urine flow in benign prostatic hyperplasia. |
| 3 | Losartan potassium 50mg (1-0-0) | Tapered | Angiotensin II receptor blocker lowers blood pressure by countering elevated renin and angiotensin levels. |
| 4 | Domperidone 10mg and Pantoprazole 40mg (1-0-1) | Tapered | Proton pump inhibitors reduce stomach acid, treating GERD and gastric ulcers. |
| 5 | Glimepiride 2mg and metformin 1000mg (1-0-1) | Tapered | Stimulates insulin release from pancreatic β cells, managing type 2 diabetes. |
| 6 | Humalog mix 50 (1-0-0) | Tapered | Synthetic insulin controls blood sugar levels in diabetes mellitus |
The patient’s medication regimen includes CORDALEV 6.25 mg, which contains Carvedilol 6.25 mg, a beta-1, beta-2, and alpha-1 receptor blocker, taken twice daily (1-0-1). TAMSUGYL, composed of Tamsulosin Hydrochloride 0.4 mg, is a selective alpha-1 adrenergic receptor antagonist administered once daily in the morning (1-0-0). LASATIMED 50 mg, with Losartan 50 mg, is a selective and competitive angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) acting at the AT1 receptor site, also taken once daily (1-0-0). AGIPEN 40 mg contains Pantoprazole 40 mg, a proton pump inhibitor that works by inhibiting the H+/K+ ATPase enzyme, prescribed once daily (1-0-0). GLYCIMEP C1P2 FORTE includes Glimepiride 2 mg and Metformin Hydrochloride 1000 mg, which stimulate insulin release from the pancreas and is taken twice daily (1-0-1). Lastly, HUMALOG, an insulin injection at 100 IU/ml, mimics natural insulin and is administered in the evening (18-0-0).
4. Naturopathic and Lifestyle Interventions :
Dietary Modifications: Personalized plans to stabilize blood glucose and support prostate health.
Physical Activity: Regular exercises and yoga asanas to improve circulation and metabolic health.
Stress Management: Mindfulness and relaxation techniques.
Supplementation: Addressing nutrient deficiencies with natural supplements.
Therapeutic Treatments: Targeted therapies to enhance metabolic function and reduce inflammation.
5. Results and Follow-Up
| S. No | Biomarker | Before Treatment | After Treatment |
| 1 | Fasting Insulin | 212.11 μIU/mL | 38 μIU/mL |
| 2 | Fasting Blood Glucose | 187.54 mg/dL | 94.77 mg/dL |
| 3 | HOMA-IR | 98.22 | 9.09 |
| 4 | Hs-CRP | 15.2 mg/L | 0.6 mg/L |
| 5 | HbA1c | 8.1% | 6.5% |
Fasting insulin levels dropped significantly from 212.11 μIU/mL to 38 μIU/mL, reflecting enhanced insulin sensitivity. Fasting blood glucose improved from 187.54 mg/dL to 94.77 mg/dL, indicating better glycemic control. The HOMA-IR score decreased from 98.22 to 9.09, showcasing a substantial reduction in insulin resistance. Systemic inflammation also declined, as evidenced by a decrease in Hs-CRP levels from 15.2 mg/L to 0.6 mg/L. Additionally, HbA1c improved from 8.1% to 6.5%, signifying effective long-term glucose management.
6. Discussion
Prabhakar’s case highlights the efficacy of holistic care in managing complex health issues. The significant reductions in fasting insulin, HOMA-IR, and systemic inflammation (Hs-CRP) underscore the potential of natural therapies to enhance metabolic and inflammatory pathways. The resolution of urinary symptoms and improved glycemic control demonstrate the effectiveness of personalized naturopathic interventions in achieving sustained health outcomes.
7. Conclusion
Through this holistic approach, Prabhakar achieved substantial health gains. His insulin resistance was drastically reduced, and his overall well-being improved significantly. This case highlights a significant clinical improvement in a patient previously struggling with insulin resistance and associated metabolic disturbances. Following targeted interventions aimed at reducing insulin resistance, the patient demonstrated remarkable progress, leading the treating physician to make the clinical decision to discontinue chemotherapy. Through a comprehensive nature cure regimen, including a personalized diet and therapeutic treatments, the patient has successfully tapered off all medications. His oncologist described the progress as miraculous, confirming that no further consultations were necessary. This outcome underscores the effectiveness of integrative and natural therapies in managing complex health conditions.