The language used around diabetes: A qualitative study focusing on the experience of people living with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes in Ireland

Patterson, Ellie, Finnegan, Méabh, Deschênes, Sonya, Lowry, Michelle, Griffin, Tomás P., Creaven, Ann-Marie, & Morrissey, Eimear C. (2026). The Language Used Around Diabetes: A Qualitative Study Focusing on the Experience of People Living With Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes in Ireland. Health Expectations, 29(1), e70589. https://doi.org/10.1111/hex.70589

Abstract

Context The majority of people living with diabetes experience stigma; this is often conveyed through language. There is a growing international focus on the language used around diabetes, but the experience of the same has not been investigated in an Irish context. Objectives To investigate: (1) the experience of language related to diabetes among people living with type 1 or type 2 diabetes in Ireland and (2) perceptions of the Irish Language Matters guide. Methods Using a descriptive qualitative approach, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 14 participants aged 21–68, diagnosed with type 1 (n = 10; 8 female) or type 2 diabetes (n = 4; 2 female). Reflexive thematic analysis was used. Results Four themes were developed: (1) ‘Language used by healthcare providers matters’; sub-themes: ‘Dismissive, blameful, and inadequate language’ and ‘Person versus Patient’; (2) ‘Judgement’; sub-themes: ‘Misunderstanding and misconceptions about diabetes’ and ‘Minimising and othering language’; (3) ‘More than language’; and (4) ‘The Irish Language Matters guide: Mixed feelings’. Language described was predominantly negative, emotionally meaningful, and important in healthcare. It often conveyed stigma, criticism and judgement rather than care and support. Communication as a whole, including tone and attitude, was important. The guide was largely endorsed, but disagreement existed around some terms. Conclusions In Ireland, language around diabetes is typically negative and conveys stigma. This study underscores the need for Ireland-specific guidance and training on respectful language and effective communication, particularly in healthcare settings. Patient or Public Contribution The initial interview guide developed by the primary researcher was circulated to the Diabetes Language Matters Ireland Working Group, which includes people living with diabetes, psychologists, dieticians and a consultant endocrinologist, all Ireland-based. Their feedback was incorporated across two rounds to produce the penultimate guide. This guide was then piloted by the primary researcher with a person living with type 1 diabetes; pacing adjustments were made to produce the final interview guide.

Publisher

Wiley

Rights

CC BY

cb

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