Leonardo da Vinci and the insulin experience

Abstract

This editorial is based on the philosophy of Leonardo da Vinci, the great maestro, and its relevance to insulin use. We use the basic principles of scientific thought that he practiced to address a major clinical challenge today: the suboptimal insulin experience. The seven cardinal principles of da Vinci: curiosita, dimostrazione, senzazione, sfumato, arte/scienza, corporalita and connessione are applicable to insulin usage as well. This editorial discusses these principles and their concordance with various therapeutic models and frameworks. These include therapeutic patient education, injection technique, diabetes-friendly healthcare, user-friendly delivery devices, the biopsychosocial model, patient-centred care, diabetes therapy by the ear and motivational interviewing. The need to improve insulin literacy and numeracy, teach injection technique with user-friendly delivery devices, and address insulin distress is articulated. The importance of continuing medical education, learning from experience, following a healthy lifestyle and preventing compassion fatigue is discussed.