A report by Diabetes Australia has found that thousands of Queenslanders face stigma and shame because of their diabetes.
Diabetes Queensland CEO Sturt Eastwood is asking people to be more aware of the pressure placed on these individuals, and offer understanding and support.
“When people feel judged or blamed for their diabetes they often hide it from those around them and then this can lead to them not managing their diabetes as well as they should and, as we know, this can lead to serious long-term health complications. So it’s important with diabetes not to feel self-conscious, they need to know that they have the support of their family, their friends, work colleagues and can ask for help if they need it,” Mr Eastwood said.