From Rash to Risk – The Skin-Diabetes Connection

Skin disorders like acanthosis nigricans to necrobiosis lipoidica are common in diabetes and are often early indicators of metabolic dysfunction. However, their impact extends beyond clinical implications.

Many of these conditions disproportionately affect individuals with darker skin tones. Colourism – the social privileging of lighter skin within and across racial groups – can intensify the stigma and emotional burden of visible skin changes. For people of colour, especially, skin manifestations of diabetes may lead to compounded psychosocial stress, including lowered self-esteem, social withdrawal, and reduced quality of life. The visibility of these conditions may also evoke shame or internalized blame, particularly in communities where diabetes is stigmatized.

As clinicians, we must not only recognize the medical significance of these dermatoses but also address the broader context of identity, cultural biases, and mental health. Enhancing healthcare provider education on skin of colour and cultivating empathy in client interactions are crucial steps toward ensuring equity as the basis of daily professional healthcare work.