Why We Need to Talk About Diabetes Stigma – Now
- t2diabetesnetwork
- Aug 26
- 3 min read
Key Highlights:
✅ Over four million Canadians live with diabetes.
✅ 92% of those with Type 1 report stigma.
✅ 68.2% of those with Type 2 report stigma.
✅ 34.2% of Type 1 and 13.9% of Type 2 people face discrimination.
Diabetes is a complex, chronic condition affecting over four million Canadians. Yet, for many, the physical challenges of managing diabetes are compounded by a pervasive and often overlooked issue: stigma.
This stigma, deeply rooted in misconceptions about the disease, affects individuals' mental health, access to care, and overall quality of life. It's time to confront this issue head-on.
A 2024 national survey by Diabetes Canada revealed that 92% of individuals with type 1 diabetes and 68.2% with type 2 diabetes reported experiencing some form of stigma. Additionally, 34.2% of those with type 1 diabetes and 13.9% with type 2 diabetes reported facing outright discrimination.
Understanding Diabetes Stigma
Diabetes stigma refers to the negative beliefs, judgments, and discrimination faced by individuals diagnosed with diabetes. These perceptions often stem from the misconception that diabetes, particularly type 2, is solely the result of poor lifestyle choices. This oversimplification ignores the multifaceted nature of the disease, including genetic factors, socioeconomic status, and access to healthcare.
Common Forms of Diabetes Stigma
At-Risk Populations
1. Indigenous Communities
Indigenous populations in Canada face higher rates of type 2 diabetes compared to the general population. Factors such as limited access to healthcare, socioeconomic challenges, and historical trauma contribute to both the prevalence of the disease and the stigma associated with it. This stigma can lead to feelings of shame and reluctance to seek care, exacerbating health disparities.
2. Youth and Adolescents
Younger individuals, especially those diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, often experience stigma related to body image and lifestyle choices. This can lead to challenges in self-management and seeking support. A study published in the Canadian Journal of Diabetes found that stigma negatively impacts glucose control among youth with diabetes.
3. Low-Income and Racialized Groups
Economic disparities and systemic racism can exacerbate experiences of stigma. Individuals from low-income and racialized backgrounds may face additional barriers to accessing care and support, further isolating them. These compounded challenges highlight the need for targeted interventions to address both the social determinants of health and the stigma associated with diabetes.
We recently spoke with Dr. David Campbell and his work with diabetes in the homeless populations, including the Film Screening of the short film Low.
The Impact of Stigma
Mental Health: Individuals with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing depression and anxiety due to the emotional toll of stigma. A study published in The Lancet found that stigma adversely affects emotional, mental, and physical well-being.
Healthcare Avoidance: Fear of judgment can lead people to delay or avoid medical appointments, increasing the risk of complications. This avoidance can result in poorer health outcomes and increased healthcare costs.
Poor Disease Management: Stigma can hinder effective self-management, leading to poorer health outcomes. Individuals may feel discouraged from adhering to treatment plans or seeking necessary support.
Social Isolation: Experiencing stigma can lead to withdrawal from social interactions, further impacting mental health and quality of life. This isolation can perpetuate a cycle of negative emotions and behaviors.
Changing the Narrative
To combat diabetes stigma, we must:
Educate the Public: Increase awareness about the complexities of diabetes, emphasizing that it is not solely caused by lifestyle choices. Public education campaigns can dispel myths and foster understanding.
Promote Empathy: Encourage compassionate language and understanding in both healthcare settings and everyday interactions. Training programs for healthcare providers can improve patient interactions and reduce stigma.
Support Affected Individuals: Create environments where people with diabetes feel safe to seek help and share their experiences without fear of judgment. Support groups and community programs can provide a sense of belonging and reduce feelings of isolation.
Advocate for Policy Change: Implement policies that address the social determinants of health and reduce disparities in diabetes care. Advocacy efforts can lead to systemic changes that benefit all individuals with diabetes.
Conclusion
Diabetes stigma is a significant barrier to the well-being of many Canadians. By fostering understanding and compassion, we can create a society where individuals with diabetes are supported, not stigmatized. It's time to change the conversation and eliminate the stigma attached to diabetes.
View our Diabetes Stigma Webpage for more resources and information
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