The Language Used Around Diabetes: A Qualitative Study Focusing on the Experience of People Living With Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes in Ireland

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.