Commentary: The Effect of Words on Health and Diabetes

Abstract

This article discusses the effect of words on diabetes. People with diabetes are exposed to the language health care professionals (HCPs) use, in both speaking and writing, and those words may contribute to an already stressful illness experience. Language is a significant part of every person’s context, and context shapes experience. There is evidence that words can affect responses to health-related situations and may even lead to a stress response. HCPs often discuss delivering diabetes care in an empowerment model, and so far that has not included using language that is consistent with the approach. Awareness is the first step toward identifying and changing the words HCPs use with people who have diabetes.