Diabetes in Thailand is further complicated by a lack of awareness among diabetics. The disease translates from Thai as “sweet urine disease,” which is often self-diagnosed when villagers notice ants gathering around their outdoor toilets.Some diabetic Thais also choose to ignore the disease. Many attribute their condition to karma, blaming the illness on misdeeds from past lives. Others recite their Buddhist acceptance of illness and death, choosing instead to indulge in sweet foods.Because of this, researchers have advised government doctors to use more Buddhist logic to help direct Thais away from poor diets, citing monks who lower blood pressure by meditating and avoiding large meals.