Juicebox avatar

Dexa/Juicebox

Learn more
Published Sep 27, 2023

#1028 Diabetes Myths: Typos

Scott Benner tackles prevalent diabetes myths, delving into the personal and societal impacts of misdiagnosis and the importance of social support. By dissecting misconceptions between type one and type two diabetes, Benner advocates for enhanced public education to dismantle stereotypes and encourage informed dialogue.
Episode Highlights
Juicebox Podcast: Type 1 Diabetes logo

Topics covered

Popular Clips

Questions from this episode

Episode Highlights

  • Adult Onset

    challenges the myth that type one diabetes cannot develop in adults, a misconception rooted in the outdated term "juvenile diabetes." He shares a personal anecdote about a friend who was surprised to learn that someone diagnosed in their twenties could have type one diabetes 1. This misunderstanding often leads to misdiagnosis, as some assume adult-onset diabetes must be type two due to genetic assumptions 2.

    I can't develop type one diabetes. I'm an adult. It must be something else. Am I sure that I'm type one? That's usually a thing kids get.

    ---

    emphasizes the importance of educating the public to dispel these myths and prevent further confusion.

       

    Type Confusion

    Confusion between type one and type two diabetes is prevalent, often leading to misconceptions about their differences. recounts a conversation where someone insisted that both types are the same disease, highlighting the frustration this causes for those with type one 3. Misdiagnosis is common, with some being incorrectly labeled as type two due to age or weight, despite being insulin-dependent 2.

    I had a long conversation with somebody who told me that type one and type two diabetes are the exact same disease.

    ---

    stresses the need for better education to clarify these distinctions and reduce stigma.

       

    Weight Myths

    The association between weight and diabetes is fraught with misconceptions, often leading to societal and medical biases. discusses the harmful myth that type two diabetes is solely caused by being overweight and can be cured by weight loss 4. He illustrates this with an analogy about carrying weight, explaining how the body's capacity to manage glucose can be overwhelmed 5.

    I think the most hurtful myth is that you only have type two because you're overweight, and if you lose weight, you will magically be cured.

    ---

    calls for a more nuanced understanding of diabetes that considers individual health beyond weight.

Related Episodes