Health-related stigma, perceived social support, and their role in quality of life among women with lipedema
Resource type
Authors/contributors
- Falck, Johanna (Author)
- Herbst ,Karen (Author)
- Rolander ,Bo (Author)
- Nygårdh ,Annette (Author)
- Jonasson ,Lise-Lotte (Author)
- and Mårtensson, Jan (Author)
Title
Health-related stigma, perceived social support, and their role in quality of life among women with lipedema
Abstract
Lipedema is a chronic disease in adipose tissue affecting women. The distinctive body appearance in lipedema, often mistaken for obesity, may be detrimental to social life. In our online cross-sectional survey study, conducted from June to September 2021 among 245 women with lipedema, we found significantly more health-related stigma compared to an aged-matched general female population (N = 1872), leading to an overall lower quality of life. Conversely, strong social support was associated with better social and emotional functioning. As such, healthcare professionals must, even in the early stages, recognize this disease and address its impact on psychosocial health and well-being.
Publication
Health Care for Women International
Volume
0
Issue
0
Pages
1-19
Date
2025-05-08
ISSN
0739-9332
Accessed
5/12/25, 9:25 PM
Library Catalog
Taylor and Francis+NEJM
Extra
Publisher: Taylor & Francis
_eprint: https://doi.org/10.1080/07399332.2025.2499487
Citation
Falck, J., Herbst ,Karen, Rolander ,Bo, Nygårdh ,Annette, Jonasson ,Lise-Lotte, & and Mårtensson, J. (2025). Health-related stigma, perceived social support, and their role in quality of life among women with lipedema. Health Care for Women International, 0(0), 1–19. https://doi.org/10.1080/07399332.2025.2499487
Publication
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