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November 14th is World Diabetes Day, a time to raise awareness about one of the most common chronic diseases.
Each year, the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) sets a global theme for World Diabetes Day. This year’s theme, “Diabetes and Wellbeing in the Workplace”, invites us to look at how our work environment and daily habits shape our health, physically, mentally and emotionally.
Let’s start with the basics:
What Diabetes Is (and isn’t) 
Diabetes happens when the body has trouble making or using insulin, the hormone that helps move sugar from our blood into our cells for energy. Over time, sustaining high blood sugar levels can affect the heart, kidneys, eyes and nerves and overall wellbeing but early awareness and small, steady lifestyle changes can make a big difference.
Type 1 diabetes: an autoimmune condition with which the body makes little to no insulin, typically diagnosed in childhood or young adulthood.
Type 2 diabetes: a chronic condition in which the body does not use insulin properly to regulate blood sugars. This is the most common form.
Prediabetes: blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not yet in diabetes type 2 range, a key window for prevention!
Know the Signs
Many people with diabetes or prediabetes don’t realize it as symptoms can be mild and go easily unnoticed. Learning the warning signs can prompt early testing and treatment and can decrease the risk of developing complications of diabetes.
Common signs and symptoms include2:
- Urinating often
- Feeling very thirsty
- Feeling very hungry – even though you are eating
- Extreme fatigue
- Blurry vision
- Cuts/bruises that are slow to heal
- Weight loss – even though you are eating more (type 1)
- Tingling, pain, or numbness in the hand/feet (type 2)
Individuals at Higher Risk
Non-modifiable risk factors can’t be changed like family history or age, but modifiable risk factors like exercise can be managed through small consistent lifestyle habits!
Non-modifiable risk factors:
- Family history of diabetes (especially with a first degree relative)3
- Age 45 or older (although it has been seen in younger people)3
- Certain racial or ethnic backgrounds: African American, Hispanic/Latino, native American, Asian American, pacific islander3
- History of gestational diabetes3
Modifiable risk factors:
- Physical inactivity – a sedentary lifestyle that involves less than 3 times a week of physical activity raises the risk3
- High blood pressure or high cholesterol3
- Smoking3
- Living with high amount of body fat. Particularly visceral fat5
Other health conditions related with insulin resistance4: Non-alcoholic fatty live disease (NAFLD), polycystic ovary disease (PCOS)
The Importance of Knowing Your A1c
The A1c test measures your average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months. It’s a simple blood test that gives a big-picture view of how your body is managing glucose. This is one of the many reasons, completing an annual doctor’s appointment can be a great step in preventative health. 
A1c ranges6:
- Below 5.7%: Normal
- 5.7-6.4%: Prediabetes
- 6.5% or higher: Diabetes
If you have not had your A1c checked in the last year, consider asking your provider about it, especially if you have any risk factors. Knowing your numbers is one of the most empowering steps you can take for your health.
Promoting Well-Being at Work
Let this year’s World Diabetes Day be a reminder that diabetes care isn’t just about medication or diet, it’s about total well-being. Did you know 7 in 10 people living with diabetes are of working age7? Meaning that millions of employees manage their condition while balancing professional and personal responsibilities. Day-to-day management can sometimes bring unique challenges, but with greater understanding and support, workplaces can play an important role in helping individuals feel confident and cared for.
Building Awareness: Common Misconceptions About Diabetes
To start, let’s demystify some common misconceptions about diabetes. Even though diabetes affects millions of people worldwide, it’s still surrounded by misunderstandings. Let’s take a moment to clear up a few common myths that can shape how we think and talk about diabetes in the workplace.
Myth #1: Diabetes is caused by eating too much sugar.
Fact: Diabetes is complex and eating sugar alone does not cause it. It involves many factors including genetics, stress, metabolic health and more.
Myth #2: “Only people who are overweight get diabetes”
Fact: Individuals of any body size can develop diabetes. Focusing on only body size can make us overlook important early signs and can add unnecessary stigma. While a higher body weight is one risk factor for type 2 diabetes, it’s far from the only one and many individuals in larger bodies never develop diabetes. Remember, the cause of type 2 diabetes is multifactorial.
Myth #3: “People living with diabetes can’t eat any carbs”
Fact: Carbohydrates are still part of a balanced diet even for someone with diabetes. Everyone’s diabetes eating plan is different, but the focus is on complex carbohydrates with protein and
healthy fats! That doesn’t mean refined carbs (sweets etc.) must be completely avoided, it’s about finding balance, timing and combinations that help energy and blood sugar stay steady throughout the day. With a little planning, favorite foods can absolutely fit into a well-managed diabetes eating pattern.
Misconception #4: ” Everyone with diabetes needs insulin”
Fact: Treatment depends on the type of diabetes and the person’s needs. Some people with type 2 diabetes manage with lifestyle changes and oral medication, others need insulin. There is a no one-size-fits-all approach.
Here are a few practical ways to support your own health and contribute to a healthier workplace culture:
Support balanced eating in shared spaces – Encourage a culture where breaks are respected and nourishing meals are valued. Simple things, such as offering balanced options at meetings or remembering that not everyone can delay lunch, go a long way.
Get some movement in – Take short stretch or walk breaks throughout your shift. A quick 5-minute light to moderate paced walk after lunch helps regulate blood sugar and improve focus8.
Respect flexibility – Managing blood sugar sometimes means adjusting schedules or taking a quick break. Flexibility and understanding from co-workers or supervisors can reduce stress and support better blood sugar stability.
Caring for Mental Health is Part of Diabetes Care
Managing a long-term conditions like diabetes can be emotionally demanding. In fact, three in four people living with diabetes report experiencing anxiety, depression or another mental health concern because of their condition1.
Support is available through Jay Nolan’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Staff can access confidential counseling and resources for managing stress, emotional fatigue whether or not you live with diabetes. If you are a Jay Nolan Staff member and want to learn more about the Employee Assistance Program, contact our Benefits Wellness Coordinator Zach Clemente at zclemente@jaynolan.org or at (818) 336-9549.
Medical Advice Disclaimer: The information provided on this blog is for informational and educational purposes only. No material provided in this blog, including images and graphics, is intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider before making any dietary changes or starting a new health care regimen. Do not neglect professional advice because of what you may have read in this blog.
References:
2. Diabetes Symptoms & Early Warning Signs: Know When to Take Action.
3. Search Term: “Diabetes Risk Factors.”
4. CDC. “Diabetes and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS).” Diabetes, 4 Feb. 2025
6. CDC. “A1C Test for Diabetes and Prediabetes.” Diabetes, 8 Jan. 2025
7. Search Term: “World Diabetes Day.”
8. Taking a Walk after Eating Can Help with Blood Sugar Control | UCLA Health.
