Abbott (NYSE:ABT) today unveiled a new initiative addressing the biases and stigmas associated with diabetes management.
The maker of the leading FreeStyle Libre continuous glucose monitor (CGM) platform launched the “Above the Bias” initiative after a new survey highlighted how everyday comments centered around food, appearances and other stigmas may affect people living with diabetes.
Abbott says survey data revealed misconceptions and stereotypes that weigh heavily on the minds of those with diabetes. These can create yet another barrier to care, potentially preventing people from managing their health.
“How many times have we heard ‘That looks like diabetes on a plate’ when we’re watching a movie, eating at a restaurant or scrolling through social media?” said Dr. Susan Guzman, Behavioral Diabetes Institute co-founder, clinical psychologist and diabetes specialist. “After more than two decades of research and working with people managing diabetes, I can tell you that misconceptions around diabetes take a real toll on people. If we want to help people have healthier lives, we have to recognize where and how bias around diabetes exists and promote a compassionate and fact-based understanding of diabetes.”
What the survey revealed
The survey of more than 2,600 people with diabetes across eight countries (including the U.S.) outlined the issues around shame and stigma. It showed that people with diabetes may not get the care they need, often leading to real, unnoticed health consequences.
Nearly 70% of responders cited a stigma associated with their condition. Even more (85%) say they see inaccuracies about diabetes in the media, including on TV shows, movies and on social media. Abbott said 40% feel that diabetes is often used as the punchline of a joke.
Almost a quarter of those surveyed say they avoided sharing their diagnosis with friends or family due to embarrassment or concern. Additionally, 40% say they skipped or missed a doctor’s appointment due to shame or stigma.
Abbott said additional biometric testing revealed that nearly 40% of individuals had an elevated physiological response to stigmatizing statements. This came through, even if they don’t show outward signs or expressions. Food elicited the most significant response, Abbott said.
The question “should you really be eating that?” prompted the strongest biometric response. It caused elevated heart rate and increased perspiration.
Abbott’s aim with its new initiative
With this initiative, Abbott believes that, while words can hurt, they can also help. (Read a Q&A about the initiative with Guzman and Dr. Mahmood Kazemi, chief medical officer for Abbott’s Diabetes Care business HERE.)
The survey revealed that nearly 70% of responders believe supportive comments from others can significantly boost their motivation to manage their condition.
Abbott said “Above the Bias” aims to help others see the world from the perspective of someone living with diabetes. It builds upon efforts by several diabetes organizations, patient advocacy groups and experts that work to reduce the stigma about diabetes.
People can learn about the initiative at AboveBias.com.
“From the very early days of Libre, it’s been our job to make living with diabetes easier,” said Chris Scoggins, EVP of Abbott’s Diabetes Care business. “But technology alone can’t fix every barrier that people face. We’re committed to doing our part, but we can’t do it alone. We need the ongoing help of others to support people living with diabetes, so they can get the care they need to manage their health.”
