The American Association of Diabetes Educators and American Diabetes Association have released an expert opinion on the use of language in diabetes care and education. They suggest the following guiding principles for communication with and about people living with diabetes:

• Diabetes is a complex and challenging disease involving many factors and variables.
• Stigma that has historically been attached to diabetes diagnosis can contribute to stress and feelings of shame and judgment.
• The health care team can serve people with diabetes more effectively through a respectful, inclusive, and person-centered approach.
• Person-first, strengths-based, empowering language can improve communication and enhance the motivation, health, and well-being of people with diabetes.

Additionally, they recommended using language that:

• Is neutral; nonjudgmental; and based on facts, actions, or physiology/biology.
• Is free from stigma.
• Is strengths-based, respectful, inclusive, and imparts hope.
• Fosters collaboration between patients and providers.
• Is person-centered.