AdminSun Life Malaysia’s latest nationwide Blood Glucose Screening Programme has uncovered a troubling health crisis. Nearly one-third of Malaysians are grappling with elevated blood glucose levels, with a significant portion unaware of their condition. This trend, which disproportionately affects young adults and low-income households, underscores the urgent need for targeted health interventions.
One in Three Malaysians at Risk
The screening, involving over 5,100 participants, revealed that 30% of Malaysians are either pre-diabetic (16%) or diabetic (14%). While diabetes is often associated with aging, the data indicates a concerning prevalence among younger Malaysians.
Raymond Lew, CEO and President/Country Head of Sun Life Malaysia, expressed alarm over the findings. “It is disheartening to see such significant numbers of Malaysians with high blood glucose levels despite years of health education. Our data shows an increasing trend among older Malaysians, reinforcing the importance of managing diabetes as we age.”
Among those with elevated blood glucose levels, 75% are aged 41 and above, indicating a strong link between aging and diabetes. However, the rising prevalence among younger demographics suggests a shift in disease patterns.
Youth and Socioeconomic Factors Worsen the Crisis
The study highlights a lack of awareness among young adults. A staggering 84% of individuals aged 18-29 with elevated blood glucose are unaware of their diabetic status. Furthermore, 15% of young adults aged 18-20 already fall into the pre-diabetic or diabetic categories.
Traditionally viewed as an ailment affecting older adults, diabetes is increasingly impacting the youth. This shift underscores the need for targeted health education campaigns and preventive measures to empower young Malaysians in managing their health more effectively.
Additionally, socioeconomic disparities exacerbate the issue. Nearly 82% of participants with elevated blood glucose levels come from lower-income households earning below RM5,000 monthly. Limited access to nutritious food and diabetes education in these groups may contribute to the higher prevalence.
Empowering Change Through Coaching
In response to the crisis, Sun Life Malaysia collaborated with BookDoc to launch a three-month Diabetes Coaching Programme. The initiative provided personalized guidance on nutrition, physical activity, and lifestyle management to 533 participants. Results showed promising outcomes, with 50% of participants achieving stable or improved blood glucose levels.
Reuben Poh, CEO of BookDoc, highlighted the impact of digital tools in addressing diabetes. “By
integrating digital tools, we are able to make diabetes management more accessible and engaging.
Features like the digital health coaching, traffic light food rating and step-tracking rewards system
provide personalized, easy-to-use guidance, resonating well with users. This combination of digital
accessibility, tailored support, and proactive engagement highlights the importance of using technology to promote sustainable, positive health changes.”
Since 2019, Sun Life Malaysia’s screening programme has reached over 35,000 Malaysians, offering free blood glucose tests and health services in collaboration with partners like Health Lane, Roche Diagnostics, and MOG Eyewear. These initiatives aim to encourage early detection and foster healthier lifestyles nationwide.
As diabetes continues to rise across all age groups, particularly among vulnerable communities, experts urge Malaysians to prioritize early screening and education. The findings call for a united effort to combat this silent epidemic and improve the nation’s overall health.
CJMY
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