Deconstructing stigma as a barrier to treating DGBI: Lessons for clinicians

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Psychiatry
• Medical Sociology

Background:

• Disorders of gut-brain interaction (DGBI), such as functional dyspepsia (FD), often lack clear structural causes.
• These conditions are frequently misattributed to psychiatric issues due to high comorbidity and response to neuromodulators, leading to significant stigma.
• Stigma in healthcare settings negatively affects patients, causing distress, non-adherence, and access barriers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the prevalence and impact of stigma in patients with DGBI.
• To explore the historical roots of stigma associated with DGBI, linking it to mind-body dualism.
• To provide clinicians with actionable strategies to mitigate stigma and improve patient outcomes.

Main Methods:

• This minireview synthesizes data from Yan et al. (Neurogastroenterol Motil, 2020).
• Analysis of the psychological and social factors contributing to stigma in DGBI.
• Identification of evidence-based interventions to reduce stigma.

Main Results:

• Stigma is a pervasive issue in DGBI, stemming from historical mind-body dualism and misinterpretations of symptom etiology.
• Adverse consequences of stigma include emotional distress, poor treatment adherence, and limited healthcare access.
• Clinicians require guidance to effectively address and reduce stigma in DGBI patient care.

Conclusions:

• Healthcare providers and patients must recognize the factors driving stigma in DGBI.
• Implementing strategies to ameliorate stigma is essential for optimizing treatment adherence and clinical outcomes.
• Further research and education are needed to combat the negative effects of stigma on DGBI patients.