A startling one in 10 adults with chronic health conditions believe their illness has led to them being rejected, in a cruel trend now known as ‘discrimidating’.
A survey of 500 adults living with a medical condition revealed that 16% felt they had been mistreated or discriminated against by a partner due to their health.
The research indicates that 1 in 10 think they’ve been refused a date because of health issues such as Type 2 diabetes. Consequently, 58% of those surveyed who have used dating apps are ‘unlikely’ to reveal their health status on their profiles, fearing stigmatisation.
This is hardly surprising given the study showed at least 10% have suffered condescending and demeaning behaviour from partners, and in some instances controlling behaviour.
The research was conducted by Abbott’s FreeStyle Libre, creators of continuous glucose sensing technology, in anticipation of World Diabetes Day on November 14th.
The study discovered that 47% of people with Diabetes have refrained from discussing their condition on social media.
When quizzed about why, the majority said that they don’t believe it’s anyone else’s business, while others say they don’t want their condition to define who they are.
As part of the research, an additional 1,000 adults without a chronic illness were also surveyed.
Of the total 1,500 respondents, one in 10 haven’t pursued a relationship with someone who has a chronic condition, and only a fifth knew someone who does.
Nearly 30% of individuals think it’s unlikely that someone would opt to begin a romantic relationship with a person who has a known or perceived health issue. Moreover, a brutal third of respondents said concurred that those with chronic illnesses are less appealing as romantic or sexual partners.
Neil Harris, divisional vice president of West Europe for Abbott’s diabetes care business, stated: “Unfortunately, diabetes bias and prejudice are common in our society.”
“By calling out “discrimidating” the act of rejecting someone for something they can’t help we hope to make it easier for people to discuss medical conditions, raise awareness, and erase stigmatising behaviour.”
Neil Harris, the divisional vice president of West Europe for Abbott’s diabetes care business, commented: “Unfortunately, diabetes bias and prejudice are common in our society.”
“By calling out ‘discrimidating’ the act of rejecting someone for something they can’t help we hope to make it easier for people to discuss medical conditions, raise awareness, and erase stigmatising behaviour.”
