Sir Peter calls out website for dangerous diabetes disinformation

Koi Tū statement
Sunday 21 May 2023

One of Aotearoa New Zealand’s renowned science leaders has slammed a website and Facebook adverts which falsely link his name with comments opposing a mainstay of diabetes medication.

Distinguished Professor Sir Peter Gluckman, the president of the International Science Council and director of Koi Tū: The Centre for Informed Futures at Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland, says he is appalled by the article.

“The implications of this disinformation could be deadly. I urge people with diabetes to only follow advice from their trusted medical practitioner. Indeed, metformin is a cheap, highly effective, and very safe drug for many people with type two diabetes.”

The website comunare.com posted an article on May 11 claiming Sir Peter endorsed an unproven product instead of an approved diabetes medication.

“I want to make it clear that I have never endorsed this or any other product, my involvement is a complete fabrication and I am diametrically opposed to it.”

Koi Tū is requesting Meta to to remove the false content.

As part of our wider work programme, Koi Tū is working to combat misinformation and disinformation and its impact on social cohesion.

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