Diabetes stigma

Diabetes Stigma and the Weight of Words: Above the Bias

Too many people with diabetes in Ireland are skipping doctor’s appointments or staying silent about their diagnosis—because of shame and stigma. Abbott’s new campaign, Above the Bias and short film, shines a spotlight on how casual comments and media stereotypes affect people living with diabetes every day and how these misconceptions can impact diabetes care.

A survey conducted on behalf of Abbott found that:

  • 80% of people in Ireland with diabetes say they’ve faced stigma.

  • Over half of people (53%) living with diabetes in Ireland have skipped or missed a doctor's appointment due to shame or stigma.

  • 36% have not shared their diagnosis with a loved one due to concerns.

Image from Abovethebias.com

But here’s the good news: supportive words make a real difference. The Above the Stigma Campaign was launched in Ireland on Wednesday, April 9.

🎥 Watch the film here. 💡Learn more: AboveBias.com

This blog post was created from information provided by a press release issued by Abbott on April 10, which can be viewed in full here with resources cited.