From Medicalisation to Artificial Intelligence: A Preliminary Web Survey of People Living with Diabetes

This paper explores how artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping medicalisation in the everyday management of diabetes. Drawing on a preliminary web survey of a non-probability sample of 1932 self-selected participants, it examines treatment adherence, dietary practices, quality of life and the use of innovative digital technologies. The findings suggest that AI-supported technologies, including self-management tools and continuous glucose monitoring systems, can support treatment adherence and more personalised care. Experiences of medicalisation differ according to diabetes type, individual coping strategies and patterns of AI use, suggesting that algorithmic systems reshape rather than simply reinforce traditional processes of medicalisation. In this context, medicalisation takes on a positive connotation and is closely linked to pharmacologisation. AI plays an emerging role as an intermediary between patients and physicians, opening up new avenues for research into the social, ethical and organisational implications of these developments and their relationship with telemedicine.