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WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 19, 2001

In addition to using Western methods to combat diabetes, the Hu Hu Kam Memorial Hospital on the Gila River Reservation in Arizona uses traditional Native ceremonies in the fight against what has become an epidemic in Indian Country.

One ceremony is a confidential talking circle patients use to express their feelings about diabetes or other subjects. A Tohono O'odham man leads the group, which also includes medical information provided by a doctor.

Diabetes among Pima people in Arizona is among the highest in the world. Up to 50 percent of the adult population has the disease.

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Talking Circle Used in Fight Against Diabetes (AP 9/17)