Researchers in Canada examine stigma in type 1 diabetes and the role of age and gender
Most people with type 1 diabetes report experiencing stigma. This can include being blamed, judged, or treated differently by others’ because of diabetes. Some people with type 1 diabetes also report feelings of embarrassment. Diabetes stigma has negative impacts on the health, self-care, and well-being.
Bringing an end to diabetes stigma is a global priority. But to address this issue, we need to know more about it.
Researchers in Canada have recently explored how diabetes stigma affects people with type 1 diabetes aged 14 and up. They wanted to understand, who is most likely to experience diabetes stigma? Does diabetes stigma differ by gender or age? And, do people experiencing diabetes stigma report other concerns?
Around 700 participants took part in a survey, answering questions about:
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- Their experience of diabetes stigma, using our Diabetes Stigma Assessment Scale
- How they feel overall, and about their diabetes
- How much support they get from others
- Their concerns about low and high glucose levels
What they found:
Experience of diabetes stigma varies by age and gender. Youth, aged 14 to 25, reported experiencing more diabetes stigma than middle-aged or older adults. Women reported experiencing more diabetes stigma than men. Differences mainly related to being blamed and judged. People did not report feeling treated differently based on their age or gender.
Those experiencing diabetes stigma also reported:
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- greater diabetes distress and lower mood
- more worries about hypos and avoiding high glucose levels
- less social support
Overall, this research shows that youth and women with type 1 diabetes experience greater diabetes stigma. Also, that diabetes stigma is linked to how people feel and the social support they receive. These results are consistent with our review article.
Findings highlight the urgent need for targeted efforts to reduce diabetes stigma, especially among youth and women.
To find out more about stigma, see our other blogs. Read the International Consensus Statement on Bringing an End to Diabetes Stigma. Take the pledge to #EndDiabetesStigma.
Reference:
Housni A, Katz A, Kichler JC, Nakhla M, Secours L, Brazeau A-S. Predictors of stigma perception by people with type 1 diabetes: A cross-sectional analysis of the BETTER registry. Diabetes & Metabolic Syndrome: Clinical Research & Reviews, 2024; 18: 103112.
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