Discrimination and stigma against people with diabetes is ubiquitous, which is causing harm to their physical and mental health.
That's the consensus reached by 51 experts in the field from 18 countries published in respected journal Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology.
Four in five patients face stigma while one in five are discriminated against across a variety of settings, including health care, education and employment.
It is estimated more than 537 million people are living with diabetes around the world and there are close to 1.5 million patients in Australia.
More than 90 per cent of experts agreed many people without the condition did not perceive it to be stigmatised.
There was universal agreement society has an inaccurate and overly simplistic view that patients are to blame for developing the condition or complications.
The paper's co-lead Jane Speight said blame, perceptions of sickness, fear and disgust were some of the reasons behind the stigma.
Professor Speight said it can have a negative impact on a person's wellbeing and can be linked to depression, anxiety or emotional distress.
"It can lead them to conceal their condition in public, which can affect how well they manage it," the director of the Australian Centre for Behavioural Research said.
"It can also have impacts on their personal, family, social and professional lives.
"Stigma can also have a negative impact on public and government support and funding for diabetes research, prevention, care, and treatments."
The paper said different access requirements for insulin and glucose devices by diabetes type, treatment and age could also facilitate stereotypes, suggesting some policies may be based on treatment efficacy, cost-effectiveness or even lobbying.
The 51 experts, including those with lived experience, backed the Australian-led pledge to end negative stereotypes and prejudices in decision making about diabetes.
It has been endorsed by more than 300 organisations and includes acknowledging prejudices, using respectful language, challenging fear-based messaging and advocating for equal treatment.
