A new international report has found that nearly eight in ten people living with diabetes face bias or misunderstanding in the workplace. The findings highlight how limited awareness and stigma continue to affect employees managing the condition, often leading to anxiety, reduced confidence, and barriers to career progression.
The research, commissioned by Insulet Corporation – a leader in tubeless insulin pump technology – surveyed 9,656 workers across 11 countries and more than 10 industry sectors. Participants included people with type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes, caregivers, and those without diabetes. The data paints a clear picture of the challenges that people with diabetes encounter at work, from poor understanding among colleagues to a lack of practical support.
With almost 590 million people worldwide living with diabetes, around 70% of whom are of working age, the report suggests that workplaces remain ill-equipped to provide the understanding and conditions required for employees to manage their health effectively.
“Nearly 590 million people worldwide live with diabetes, and approximately 70 percent are of working age. Yet too often their experience at work is shaped by misunderstanding, fear of disclosure, and a lack of meaningful support,” said Ashley McEvoy, Insulet President and Chief Executive Officer, said.
Misunderstanding of Diabetes Undermines Confidence
According to the study, misunderstanding and lack of knowledge are among the most common issues faced by people with diabetes and their caregivers. Forty-two percent reported workplace-related anxiety linked to managing their condition. While over half (57%) of employees without diabetes said they feel confident supporting colleagues with the condition, only 21% of people with diabetes agreed that their colleagues’ awareness was sufficient.
The survey also revealed gaps in basic knowledge. Sixty-one percent of those without diabetes could not confidently identify symptoms of type 1 diabetes, despite many being able to recall unrelated facts such as Harry Potter characters (41%) or their country’s top football teams (46%).
These figures suggest that although diabetes is common, many employees lack even a basic understanding of how it affects daily working life.
Stigma And Concealment Still Affect Many Employees
The report found that 79% of people with diabetes have faced bias or misunderstanding at work, with over a quarter (27%) fearing that their condition could limit opportunities or lead to discrimination. Almost one in four (21%) said they conceal their diabetes from colleagues or managers.
This reluctance to disclose can prevent individuals from accessing the support or adjustments they need. The data indicates that stigma remains deeply rooted, and that fear of being judged or treated differently continues to shape how people manage their condition in professional environments.
Employers Can Remove Barriers Through Simple Changes
Eighty-six percent of respondents with diabetes said they encounter barriers at work due to their condition. The findings suggest that employers could make practical adjustments to create more inclusive workplaces. Providing private spaces for glucose monitoring, offering a wider range of food options, and allowing flexible breaks were identified as measures that could significantly reduce daily challenges.
The study also found that mindfulness and wellbeing initiatives help reduce stress and anxiety, with respondents reporting better sleep and improved overall wellbeing. These measures contribute to a more supportive and resilient workplace culture.
Judy Mitri, a communications professional from Canada, said, “I wish more employers understood that diabetes may not be a visible chronic illness, but it affects many spheres of our lives, whether it’s in terms of our mental or physical health, or even our emotions. A little empathy can go a long way.”