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The First Word: How to support mobile workforces with diabetes

Diabetes has become more than a personal health concern—it is both a workforce issue in the Southeast Asia (SEA) region and one of the fastest-growing public health challenges globally. With projections showing a nearly 70 per cent increase in diabetes cases by 2045, this chronic illness affects not only individuals but entire organisations. When employees struggle with health challenges like diabetes, it inevitably impacts productivity, attendance, morale, and healthcare costs. Organisations that take proactive steps to support their workforce in managing and preventing diabetes are investing not only in their people, but in the health and resilience of their entire business.

As diabetes cases continue to rise, the need for organisational support becomes increasingly urgent. In 2021, the SEA region spent just US$10.1 billion on diabetes care—only 1 per cent of global expenditure—despite accounting for nearly 17 per cent of theworld’s diabetes population. By 2045, this spending is expected to more than double to US$21.2 billion, underscoring the growing economic and health burden.

Shockingly, more than half of the cases in SEA remain undiagnosed, and a staggering 25.9 per cent of pregnancies in this region are impacted by hyperglycaemia, which involves high blood glucose levels. The statistics make it clear: diabetes is a major health burden, and workplaces are uniquely positioned to make a real difference in tackling it.

Why Organisations Should Act Now

The good news is that organisations have the power to influence health outcomes significantly through early detection and prevention. By implementing well-structured wellness initiatives, employers can help reduce the diabetes risk factors that so often stem from modern work environments, such as a sedentary lifestyle due to long hours of sitting, high-stress workloads, and limited access to preventive healthcare. Organisations that support wellness can reduce absenteeism, improve productivity, and foster a more engaged, healthy, and dedicated workforce.

Supporting employees in managing diabetes also involves cultivating an inclusive workplace culture. Flexibility in work arrangements, access to quality healthcare resources, and a supportive network within the workplace all contribute to better health outcomes and a more positive work environment. When employees receive support in their health journey, they become more engaged and productive at work.

Creating a Proactive, Diabetes-Friendly Workplace

For effective diabetes management and prevention, organisations should consider strategies that blend education, accessibility, and adaptability. Here are some essential components:

1. Education and awareness: Workshops and informational sessions on diabetes, focusing on risks, symptoms, and preventive strategies, can equip employees to take charge of their health. For those already managing diabetes, targeted health education can provide valuable support in daily self-management.

2. Accessible health resources: Organisations can play a vital role by offering regular health check-ups and diabetes screenings, especially in regions with high rates of undiagnosed cases. Providing access to digital tools, such as telehealth services and health-tracking apps, enables employees to monitor their health more conveniently and effectively, and empowers them to manage or even prevent diabetes within a supportive workplace environment.

3. Flexible work policies: Employees with diabetes may need flexible hours to attend medical appointments or manage blood glucose levels. Organisations that implement policies offering flexible arrangements not only alleviate stress for these employees but also benefit from their increased engagement and commitment.

4. Customised wellness programmes: Partnering with health experts, such as International SOS, can help organisations develop wellness strategies tailored to their unique workforce needs. Customised programmes can address the specific health risks faced by employees, ultimately fostering a workplace culture where wellbeing is a priority.

An Opportunity for Long-Term Change

Diabetes is a long-term condition, but with the right support, employees can manage it successfully, remaining active and productive contributors to their organisations. As the SEA  region confronts the rise of diabetes, companies have an invaluable role to play in combating this epidemic. Investing in employee health through comprehensive support is more than just an act of corporate responsibility; it is a step towards building a more resilient and productive future.

By supporting their employees in managing and preventing diabetes, organisations can help create a healthier workforce, reduce healthcare costs, and set a powerful example of wellbeing in the workplace. This proactive approach not only strengthens the workforce but builds an organisational culture that values and sustains long-term health.

 


 

dr-athenais-photoAbout the author

Dr Athenais Sivaloganathan is the Health Advisor, Health & Wellbeing at International SOS, based in Singapore. She leads the development of wellbeing initiatives that include mental health, nutrition, physical activity, sleep, non-communicable and communicable diseases, as well as health promotion awareness programmes. Dr Athenais plays a key role in client engagements and health advisory support. She has a background with the NSW Government Health System, gaining experience in all major medical and surgical specialties, including working at rural and remote hospitals.

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