Debunking Diabetes Myths: Separating Fact from Fiction

Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is one of the top 10 causes of death globally, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). In the United States alone, there were an estimated 38.4 million people diagnosed with DM among all ages in 2021. Over time, there has been an increased risk for DM incidence due to the number of fast food chains, economic strain, and ability to receive healthcare.

Despite being widely recognized as a major public health issue, there are still many misconceptions about DM that contribute to stigma and misunderstanding. Although numerous resources provide accurate information on DM, these myths persist. Here are a few of the most common misconceptions and the facts you can share to debunk them.

1. All individuals who are obese develop DM.

Metabolic resistance is common among individuals diagnosed with DM. However, studies have shown that regardless of weight, anyone is at risk for poor metabolic health, otherwise known as Metabolic Syndrome (MetS). Normal-weight MetS individuals were tested to have a higher mortality rate than overweight and obese individuals, indicating that obesity-independent factors that are not related to DM are at play in the development and progression of MetS.

2. DM is not a severe diagnosis.

Individuals diagnosed with DM are able to live with it; however, this does not mean that it can be ignored. Receiving healthcare treatment when you are diagnosed with DM can cause severe economic and psychological distress. If DM is not managed properly, it could lead to drastic consequences in the short term (diabetic ketoacidosis or hypoglycemic coma) and long-term (cardiovascular disease, stroke, blindness, or death).

3. You are only at risk of developing DM if you have unhealthy eating habits.

Hereditary factors, not unhealthy eating habits alone, can be a reason why an individual is diagnosed with DM. For example, deficiencies of leptin and its receptors, as well as multiple genes that control hypothalamic feedback, can result in decreased appetite suppression, early-onset obesity, and increased risk of developing DM. This can be controlled through diet, but it is more difficult to lose weight than others without this deficiency. 

To efficiently communicate the severity and social stigmas of DM, we must shed light on the most common misconceptions and continue to articulate the importance of debunking misconceptions that are contributing to stigmas and negative health outcomes.

More information on the myths and misconceptions about DM can be found using the following links:

• Know Your Facts About Diabetes | American Diabetes Association 
• 5 Common Myths About Type 2 Diabetes: Know the Facts | Duke Health
• Diabetes Stigma | U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 

More information on DM incidence, prevalence, and epidemiology can be found using the following links:

• Diabetes | World Health Organization
• Statistics About Diabetes | American Diabetes Association
• National Diabetes Statistics Report | U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
• Diabetes Statistics | National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases
• Metabolic Syndrome |  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

By: Nicole Vicente