Diabetes Stigma and Clinical Outcomes: An International Review
Kelsey B Eitel1, Catherine Pihoker1, Catherine E Barrett2
1Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98105, USA.
Journal of the Endocrine Society
|August 6, 2024
Summary
Diabetes stigma, a social burden, negatively impacts individuals with diabetes. This review highlights its high prevalence and association with poorer health outcomes and psychosocial challenges across age groups and diabetes types.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Psychology
- Public Health
Background:
- Diabetes stigma is a significant social burden affecting individuals with diabetes.
- It manifests as social judgment, prejudice, or stereotypes in various life domains.
- Understanding its impact is crucial for improving patient care and outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review methods for assessing diabetes stigma.
- To explore the prevalence, contributing factors, and clinical outcomes associated with diabetes stigma.
- To identify gaps in understanding diabetes stigma, especially in youth with type 2 diabetes.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of studies assessing diabetes stigma.
- Analysis of prevalence data across different demographics and diabetes types.
- Examination of associations between stigma and clinical/psychosocial outcomes.
Main Results:
- High prevalence of diabetes stigma reported: up to 78% in adults with T1D, 70% in adults with T2D, and 98% in youth with T1D.
- Stigma is linked to lower psychosocial functioning, decreased self-care, higher HbA1c, and increased complications (DKA, hypoglycemia, chronic issues).
- Gaps in understanding stigma mechanisms exist, particularly for youth with T2D.
Conclusions:
- Diabetes stigma is prevalent and adversely affects clinical and psychosocial outcomes in individuals with type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
- Further research is needed to elucidate stigma mechanisms, particularly in younger populations with type 2 diabetes.
- Addressing diabetes stigma is essential for comprehensive diabetes management and improved quality of life.
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