Paul – aged 77

• Confusion
• Memory loss
• Tingling in arms and legs
• Numbness in fingers
• Bowel incontinence
• Irritability
• Loss of appetite
• Insomnia

Paul was diagnosed with type II diabetes in his early 60’s, he was always a fit and healthy man. He was given the drug metformin and eventually he was diagnosed as B12 deficient. Tragically, although Paul’s doctor refused to treat Paul with vitamin B12 injections, only prescribing oral tablets, 50mcg of cyanocobalamin. This was of course entirely useless in treating his deficiency since metformin hinders the ability to absorb B12 from food. Paul was then diagnosed with Alzheimer’s.

Paul’s condition deteriorated to such an extent that a police search was mounted after he was reported missing. Paul was found confused and disorientated miles from home in the early hours of the morning. Paul can no longer be cared for by his family and now resides in a nursing home where his condition deteriorates. His B12 deficiency still goes untreated despite the repeated efforts to educate those involved in his care.

This case presents an all too common mix of ignorance and then arrogance from health professionals who refuse to listen and then cause untold harm. The cost of ignoring pleas for correct treatment to Paul, his family and the cost to society is profound. You can read more about Paul’s case here.