3 in 10 diabetics struggle to afford appropriate care, coverage

Mental health is also affected, as 65% of diabetics report negative impacts.

Diabetes rates are rising rapidly in Asia, with over 90 million people in Southeast Asia now living with the condition, according to Sun Life’s latest report. 

New research projects that by 2045, the number of adults with diabetes in the region will reach 152 million, posing a significant public health challenge.

According to Sun Life’s findings, 33% of people living with diabetes report a severe financial burden, with 82% struggling to afford proper care. 

“Financial concerns about diabetes are even more prevalent than health-related concerns. 67% of non-diabetics are either ‘very concerned’ or ‘concerned’ about the financial burden that would result from a type 2 diabetes diagnosis, highlighting the need for the protection of health insurance,” a press release stated.

Mental health is also affected, as 65% of diabetics report negative impacts on their mental well-being.

The study also highlighted lifestyle challenges, with 31% of respondents reporting less exercise in recent years, particularly younger people. 

Of those who were less active, 46% cited a lack of access to safe and quality exercise spaces. 

Misconceptions about diabetes were also common, with 29% believing it only affects overweight individuals, 57% attributing it solely to excessive sugar intake, and 50% thinking treatment always involves insulin.

A lack of awareness before diagnosis was prevalent, with 29% of diabetics reporting they had limited knowledge of the condition before diagnosis. Furthermore, 37% believed they were at low risk or did not consider their risk. 

Whilst 92% believe remission is possible, many do not think it can be achieved within a year, despite medical guidance suggesting otherwise.

Sun Life’s recent study “Healthy Habits, Healthier Futures: Preventing Diabetes in Asia” surveyed 3,647 individuals across Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Vietnam.

The research, which included responses from 600 people with type 2 diabetes, aimed to understand the awareness of diabetes risk factors, treatment, and prevention.