This study aims to evaluate the presence of perceived stigma in people diagnosed (self-reported) with an eosinophilic gastrointestinal disorder and examine the relationship to the patient's health-related quality of life and additional psychosocial patient-reported outcomes. One hundred forty-nine patients diagnosed for a minimum of 6 months participated in the study. Eligible participants completed questionnaires to assess perceived stigma, psychological functioning, and health-related quality of life. Perceived stigma was moderately associated with a decrease in total health-related quality of life and perceived treatment efficacy. Additionally, greater perceived stigma was positively correlated with an increase in anxiety, depression, and healthcare utilization. The study demonstrates the influence of perceived stigma on several aspects of health-related quality of life in patients with these illnesses. As such, it is important for health professionals to be aware of stigma in patients diagnosed with an eosinophilic gastrointestinal disorder.
Keywords: behavioral medicine; eosinophilic gastrointestinal disorders; health-related quality of life; perceived stigma.
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