Convatec, a major company that makes medical products and technologies for people with long-term health issues, has published a new report showing the social challenges that millions of people with chronic conditions face. The study was done in the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, and Brazil, and it included over 10,000 adults, with 3,400 of them living with chronic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, Crohn’s disease, and incontinence. The research found that even though one in three people live with a chronic physical condition, almost 60 percent often hide or downplay their symptoms to avoid making others uncomfortable.
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The study shows that chronic conditions are often not obvious, with 84 percent of these conditions not easily seen. Public awareness is also different. While almost everyone knows about cancer, only 49 percent know about stoma or continence conditions, even though they are common. Many people with chronic conditions have to fight to get the help they need from healthcare professionals because their needs are not understood or taken seriously, according to 43 percent of the participants. This lack of understanding has serious effects on healthcare professionals, government officials, and employers.
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The study also shows that there is a big gap between what people think about chronic conditions and what people actually experience. While 82 percent of the public believe that chronic conditions greatly limit work, only 41 percent of those affected say they actually face work limitations. Similarly, 67 percent of people think that relationships are severely affected by chronic conditions, but only 34 percent of those living with the conditions agree. These misunderstandings can cause loneliness and prevent people from getting the support they need at work or in healthcare.
Emotional challenges are also a big part of the experience. More than half of those surveyed said they felt depressed or overwhelmed when they were diagnosed, and 40 percent still feel misunderstood even after they have adjusted to their condition. Around 70 percent say most people don’t understand what it’s like to live with a chronic condition, which shows the need for more education and compassionate communication. Advocacy is important, and many people have to speak up to get the care and support they deserve from healthcare providers.
Bruno Pinheiro, President and Chief Operating Officer of Ostomy Care at Convatec, said the study highlights the urgent need for better understanding and support for people with chronic conditions. He pointed out Convatec’s global me+ programme, which provides free resources, nurse support, and a community for people with stoma and continence conditions to help them live confidently and with dignity. A spokesperson from Colostomy UK stressed the value of awareness and peer support, noting that guidance from organizations like theirs helps individuals feel understood, reassured, and empowered to live a full life. Convatec is calling on healthcare leaders, government officials, and employers to recognize the impact of stigma, raise public awareness, and invest in education and support programs to improve the lives of people living with chronic conditions.
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