'Negative treatment at workplace affects one in two diabetics'

MORE than half (55%) of employees living with diabetes in India reported negative treatment in the workplace because of their condition, according to a new study conducted by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF).

- Our Bureau, Mumbai

To mark World Diabetes Day on 14th November, the Federation is highlighting the stigma, discrimination and lack of structural support that people living with diabetes continue to face at work.

The survey found that over two fifths (42%) of employees living with diabetes have considered leaving their job due to the way people with the condition are treated at work. Dr Banshi Saboo, Diabetologist & chairman of Diabetes Care & Hormone Clinic, Regional Chair, South East Asia, International Diabetes Federation, described the findings as “deeply concerning” and a wake-up call for employers around the world. “It is indefensible that people living with diabetes are facing stigma, isolation and discrimination in the workplace,” he said.

Nearly two thirds (63%) of employees diagnosed with type 1 diabetes reported negative treatment in the workplace, compared with half (51%) of workers living with type 2 diabetes. Four in 10 of all respondents reported having been denied breaks or time off to attend to their diabetes management.