Beyond Blood Sugar: Embracing Wellness at Work to Transform Lives of People with Diabetes

Every year on 14 November, the world comes together to observe World Diabetes Day, a global campaign that raises awareness about diabetes prevention and care. Each year, the day focuses on a specific theme to highlight an important aspect of managing the condition. The theme for World Diabetes Day 2025 is “Diabetes and Well-being,” with a special focus on promoting healthy workplaces and balanced lifestyles.

Dr. Srujana T – Consultant Endocrinologist & Diabetologist, Star Hospitals.

This theme reminds us that managing diabetes goes beyond taking medication; it’s also about nurturing mental health, reducing stress, and building environments where people can live healthier, more active lives. Whether at home, school, or work, well-being plays a crucial role in helping people with diabetes live fulfilling, productive lives. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), diabetes can affect anyone at any stage of life. In 2022, WHO Member States endorsed five global targets to be achieved by 2030, aiming to improve access to care and overall quality of life:

* 80% of people with diabetes are diagnosed

* 80% of those diagnosed have good control of blood sugar (glycaemia)

* 80% of those diagnosed have good control of blood pressure

* 60% of people with diabetes aged 40+ receive statins

* 100% of people with type 1 diabetes have access to affordable insulin and self-monitoring tools

This global campaign serves as a reminder that through awareness, timely screening, and community-driven initiatives, millions of people can prevent or better manage diabetes, ensuring improved well-being for themselves and those around them.

By Dr. Srujana T – Consultant Endocrinologist & Diabetologist, Star Hospitals. who gives an insight into how holistic wellness at the workplace can transform diabetes care and quality of life.

Holistic Care Beyond Numbers

Star Hospital’s initiative, “Beyond Blood Sugar: Embracing Wellness at Work to Transform Lives of People with Diabetes,” emphasizes that effective diabetes care is not just about monitoring glucose levels. True management involves treating the whole person, not just the condition. This means addressing nutrition, physical activity, emotional health, and social support systems, helping individuals achieve a healthier balance in every aspect of life.

Mental Well-being Matters

Living with diabetes can be mentally and emotionally challenging, often leading to anxiety, depression, or “diabetes burnout.” These emotional struggles can interfere with treatment and daily functioning. Regular mental health screenings, access to counsellors, and peer support groups can make a huge difference. Simply checking in with someone and asking, “How are you feeling today?” can open the door to meaningful conversations about emotional well-being.