BOSTON, Mass. — Convatec, a global medical products and technologies company focused on chronic condition management, has released new research revealing that millions of people feel compelled to hide their health challenges in plain sight. The report, titled Perspectives on Living With Chronic Conditions, surveyed more than 10,000 adults across the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, and Brazil, including 3,400 people living with chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, Crohn’s disease, and incontinence.
The findings show that while one in three people lives with a chronic physical condition, nearly 60 percent routinely downplay their symptoms to avoid making others uncomfortable. Convatec’s research highlights that stigma, not the condition itself, remains one of the most significant barriers to living well with a chronic illness.
According to the study, 84 percent of chronic conditions are not visible to others, and public awareness remains uneven—91 percent of people are familiar with cancer, but only 49 percent know even a little about ostomy or continence conditions. Nearly 43 percent of respondents said they must advocate for themselves in healthcare settings because their condition is misunderstood or minimized.
“Chronic conditions are a global reality, yet many keep their struggles hidden,” said Bruno Pinheiro, President and Chief Operating Officer of Ostomy Care at Convatec. “Our findings show the urgent need for genuine understanding and practical support. I’m proud that, through Convatec’s me+ program—now entering its tenth year—we are providing free, comprehensive resources, dedicated nurse support, and a supportive community for people living with stoma or continence conditions, empowering individuals to live with greater confidence and dignity.”
A spokesperson for Colostomy UK said, “Convatec’s report shines a light on the importance of awareness, understanding, and peer support for people living with a stoma. At Colostomy UK, we know how life-changing it can be to feel seen, supported, and connected. Signposting to not-for-profit organizations like ours is vital; we’re here every step of the way, helping people find reassurance, community, and confidence to live life to the fullest.”
The study found that stigma has measurable emotional consequences. More than half of respondents said they felt depressed or overwhelmed at diagnosis, and 40 percent continue to feel misunderstood even after adapting to their condition. Public perception also tends to exaggerate the limitations faced by people with chronic illnesses—82 percent of the public believe chronic conditions severely limit the ability to work, while only 41 percent of those living with such conditions say their health has actually affected employment opportunities.
Convatec is calling for healthcare leaders, employers, and policymakers to take action to improve understanding and reduce stigma around chronic conditions. With 74 percent of affected individuals hoping for greater public awareness, the company urges the creation of more inclusive environments and support systems that reflect real-world experiences.
Through its global me+ program, Convatec continues its commitment to improving quality of life for people living with stoma and continence needs by offering education, nurse support, and community resources designed to empower individuals and help them thrive while managing chronic health challenges.
