Previous research shows that people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) have negative experiences of stigma, but knowledge is missing about stigma in different subgroups.

The aim was to investigate which background variables that are associated with stigma-related emotions of shame and guilt in people with COPD. We expected associations with variables related to demography, lifestyle, disease, and previous healthcare interventions.

People with COPD were recruited in primary and specialty care in several Swedish healthcare regions, and through advertisement. In total, 134 participants (67% women, 78% moderate to severe COPD, mean age 74 years) answered the questionnaires. We statistically investigated the associations of interest with shame and guilt (1-100: low to high shame/guilt).

Preliminary analyses showed that women experienced more shame and guilt than men (mean diff 9.90, p=0.025), with no significant difference in age, level of education, size of municipality, or living with a partner. Lifestyle factors seemed important, with smoking and low physical activity being associated with more shame and guilt (mean diff 14.9, p=0.015 and mean diff 9.90, p=0.037). People in GOLD group E experienced more shame and guilt than people in groups A and B (p=0.013), with no significant difference in time since diagnosis, or number of other diagnoses. No significant difference was shown for participation in pulmonary rehabilitation or regular healthcare contacts.

To conclude, out findings show that different subgroups experience different levels of stigma. Healthcare professionals should consider tailoring the delivery of health promotion interventions, including self-management, accordingly.