How does ‘lifestyle stigma’ impact the way that the NHS prescribes and funds life-saving treatments?

Despite indisputable progress being made in the way that we view stigmatised illnesses - such as HIV, HPV, or type 2 diabetes - there is evidence that a ‘lifestyle stigma’ still exists.

Studies into how the public views ‘avoidable’ illnesses based on assumed lifestyle choices reveals there are reservations as to whether treatments should be NHS funded or easily obtainable.

There is a perception of ‘poor lifestyle and irresponsible behaviour’ in people who contract illnesses such as HIV, HPV and type 2 diabetes. This perception affects public support of government funded prevention plans in Britain.

The 'lifestyle stigma' surrounding the prescription of PrEP - used to prevent HIV infection - is evident as 65% of those who want to access the drug cannot. Despite the fact that it is 99% effective in preventing the infection of HIV. If it was easily accessible to those most at risk, HIV infections could decrease dramatically.

Despite access to a drug which is able to almost eradicate HIV infections, there are clear restrictions as to who is afforded the privilege of the drug. These restrictions demonstrate a discrimination towards those most at risk of HIV - whom we know to be members of marginalised groups such as the LGBTQ+ community and sex workers.

HIV isn’t the only illness that falls under the 'lifestyle stigma'.

The links formulated between throat and cervical cancers and HPV has led to high levels of stigma for people, particularly women, who are diagnosed. Due to this stigma, women are less likely to attend regular cervical screenings through fear of judgement. As well as those diagnosed with HPV being less likely to reveal their status to their sexual partners.

The misinformation surrounding HPV leads to people not taking the appropriate precautions. Due to the assumption that contracting HPV is a consequence of promiscuous behaviour, despite the fact that almost everyone will have some form of HPV in their lifetime, parents are hesitant to get their children vaccinated for the virus.

Research has proven that the most effective time to vaccinate a person for HPV is between 12-13 years old, before most people ever have any kind of sexual contact. This is because HPV can be just as infectious from oral sex as it is penetrative sex. If more information regarding HPV viruses was readily available, more people would be better protected and vaccinated against this STD.

However, it is not only sexually transmitted diseases that face a stigma in society.

There is a false idea that people with type 2 diabetes have it due to poor diet or lifestyle choices. More than half of people with diabetes report that they have experienced diabetes stigma. This can have a detrimental effect on a person’s self-esteem and thus their desire to look after themselves well.

Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body doesn’t produce enough insulin to function properly, or the body’s cells don’t react to insulin. Most cases of type 2 diabetes are caused by genetic predisposition or an immunodeficiency, but it is often linked to obesity, which causes the stigma.

The 'lifestyle stigma' associated with appearingly ‘avoidable’ illnesses prevents the spread of accurate information or appropriate access to preventive/curative medical attention. Illnesses associated with a person’s sexual orientation, apparent promiscuity, dietary choices or even their self-worth are often scrutinised due to stereotypes, thus making it difficult for people to obtain the medication and medical help that they require.

Edited by Ciara Lane