Language Matters: How Language Shapes Diabetes Care
- t2diabetesnetwork
- Aug 26
- 5 min read
Key Highlights
✅ Person-First Language: Reduces stigma.
✅ Supportive Terms: Avoid judgmental words like “non-compliant.”
✅ Evidence-Based: Research supports better communication.
✅ Empathy Matters: Tone and body language count.
✅ Worldwide Effort: A global movement to improve care.
The words we use to talk about diabetes have a profound and measurable impact on the people living with the condition. For too long, the narrative has been filled with judgmental, stigmatizing, and shame-based language that treats people with diabetes as a disease rather than as individuals. The consequences of this can be devastating, leading to decreased motivation, avoidance of care, and poorer health outcomes.
We explore the critical importance of language in diabetes care and offer a path forward, moving from a culture of blame to one of collaboration and support.
The Power of a Single Word
Think about the term "diabetic." While it may seem like a simple descriptor, research shows it can be dehumanizing and hurtful to many. A study published in the British Journal of Hospital Medicine explains that using "person with diabetes" instead of "diabetic" is a form of "person-first" language that reinforces a person's identity beyond their condition. This isn't just a matter of political correctness; it's a critical component of building a trusting patient-provider relationship.
Words like "compliant" and "non-compliant" are equally damaging. A study by Diabetes Victoria (Australia) found that nearly half of participants felt blamed by the term "non-compliant". The word implies that patients are failing to follow orders, stripping them of their autonomy and responsibility for their own health decisions. It creates a paternalistic dynamic where the provider is in control, rather than a collaborative partnership where both parties work together.
The language of "control" also carries a heavy burden. Phrases like "uncontrolled diabetes" or "poor control" can make a person feel like they are failing at a disease that is inherently unpredictable. In a paper published by the National Center for Biotechnology Information, one person with diabetes said, "I'm a bad diabetic; I know you're going to tell me off." The reality is that blood sugar levels are influenced by countless variables, from stress and illness to sleep and hormonal changes.
Using terms like "within/outside target range" or "glycemic management" offers a more neutral, factual description without the added weight of judgment.
The Research: A Call for Change
The movement toward more compassionate language is not just an anecdotal trend, it is backed by solid research from leading health organizations. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) and the American Association of Diabetes Educators (AADE) have issued a joint position statement titled “The Use of Language in Diabetes Care and Education.” The document provides clear guidance on shifting to a person-centered, strengths-based, and empowering communication style. It emphasizes that this change is essential for improving clinical outcomes and the overall well-being of people with diabetes.
Research shows that while the use of person-first language in diabetes articles had increased over a decade, its rate of adoption had started to slow, highlighting the continued need for awareness and education on this topic. This study found that journals with a person-first language policy were significantly more likely to use this empowering language, showing that institutional commitment plays a vital role in shifting the narrative.
The “Language Matters: Plain Language Summary” from Diabetes Canada emphasizes the importance of respectful, empathetic, and inclusive communication when discussing diabetes and those living with the condition. Words have a significant impact, influencing feelings, self-care, and relationships with healthcare professionals. Poor language can contribute to stigma, harm confidence, and discourage people from seeking care, whereas compassionate language fosters understanding and improved outcomes.
Instead of… | Try… |
Diabetic | Person with diabetes |
Non-compliant | Finding it difficult / Needs support |
Poor control | Blood sugars outside target range |
Beyond the Words: Non-Verbal Cues and Empathy
Communication is more than just the words we choose; it's also about tone, body language, and the overall spirit of the interaction. Warm, friendly, and reassuring communication is far more effective than a formal consultation. Patients are more likely to be open and honest about their struggles with a provider they feel they can trust, which in turn leads to a more accurate understanding of their needs, a better-tailored treatment plan, and greater patient satisfaction.
By asking open-ended questions like "What thoughts have you had yourself about your recent glucose levels?" instead of making a statement like "You need to get your numbers down," providers can foster a sense of shared responsibility.
This approach validates the patient's experience and invites them into a collaborative partnership, where they are seen as an active participant in their care, not a passive recipient of instructions.
Sign language expands the focus on inclusive communication beyond spoken and written words. People who are Deaf or hard of hearing often face additional barriers in healthcare, including limited access to diabetes education and medical information in their preferred language. Sign language is not just a translation; it carries its own cultural norms and is an essential component of person-centered, inclusive diabetes care, ensuring that the principles of “Language Matters” reach everyone -- regardless of hearing ability.
A Path to Better Health Through Language
Shifting the language around diabetes is a powerful and necessary step toward a more effective and compassionate healthcare system. It is about recognizing the inherent dignity of every person with diabetes and empowering them to live a full life, unburdened by shame and judgment.
By moving away from stigmatizing terms and embracing a strengths-based, person-first approach, healthcare professionals can not only improve clinical outcomes but also heal the emotional wounds that have long accompanied a diabetes diagnosis. This change requires deliberate effort and ongoing education, but the reward, a more trusting, collaborative, and human-centered approach to care, is well worth the investment.
Language Matters is a global hub for the “Language Matters” movement in diabetes care. It collects guides, statements, and resources from different countries that emphasize the importance of respectful, supportive, and empowering language when speaking to or about people living with diabetes.
The main section lists national and regional guides (UK, India, Australia, Canada, France, Italy, Sweden, Portugal, Turkey, Germany, Greece, Pakistan, South Africa, Ireland, Netherlands, etc.), each developed by local diabetes organizations to reflect cultural and linguistic contexts. These guides highlight how word choice can shape patient experiences, reduce stigma, and improve communication between healthcare providers and people with diabetes.
Shaping a Healthier Future Through Words
The journey to reshape diabetes conversations is not just about avoiding harmful words, it’s about creating a culture of respect, trust, and empowerment. Every word, gesture, and interaction has the potential to either reinforce stigma or inspire hope. By choosing compassionate, person-first language, healthcare providers, families, and communities can help transform diabetes care into a partnership that values dignity and resilience.
The #LanguageMatters movement reminds us that words are not neutral, they carry weight, and when used with care, they can lift the burden of stigma and open the door to better health and stronger human connection.
