Abbott launches initiative to battle diabetes misconceptions

ABBOTT PARK, Ill. – Abbott has launched Above the Bias, a global initiative to drive awareness about the health impact that common misconceptions and bias about diabetes can have on people living with the condition. 

The initiative includes results from a new survey and a film that highlights how everyday comments impact people with diabetes. 

"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, co-founder of the Behavioral Diabetes Institute, 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." 

Abbott’s new Above the Bias builds upon efforts by several diabetes organizations, patient advocacy groups and experts that continue to work to reduce stigma about diabetes. 

Data from a survey of more than 2,600 people living with diabetes across eight countries, including the U.S., highlights they may not be getting the care they need due to the shame and stigma around their condition, which can lead to real and often unnoticed health consequences. Findings from the survey include: 

• Diabetes stigma is an issue: Nearly 70% believe there is stigma associated with their condition. 

• Diabetes as a punchline: 85% of people living with diabetes say they have seen inaccuracies about diabetes in the media, including on TV shows, movies and social media, and 40% of people felt that diabetes is often used as the punchline of a joke. 

• Shame causes silence: Almost 25% have avoided sharing their diagnosis with family or friends out of embarrassment or concern. 

• Health consequences: 40% have skipped or missed a doctor’s appointment due to shame or stigma. 

People can learn more about Above the Bias and watch the film at AboveBias.com.