The Financial Burden of Diabetes: A Growing Crisis

Google images 2023

by Rosabel Zohfeld, APRN, MSN-Ed, FNP-C

Chronic high levels of blood sugar is a metabolic disease known as diabetes.   Diabetes itself is a global health crisis. While its physical toll on individuals is well-documented, the financial burden of diabetes is often underestimated. 

The prevalence of diabetes has been on the rise for several decades. As of 2018, according to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), approximately 463 million adults were living with diabetes worldwide, and this number is projected to increase to 700 million by 2045. The reasons for this epidemic are multifaceted, including sedentary lifestyles, poor dietary habits, and genetic predisposition.

Living with diabetes can be financially overwhelming for individuals. People with diabetes require regular medical check-ups, medication, and often insulin therapy. The cost of these essentials adds up quickly. Frequent doctor visits, lab tests, and prescription drugs can strain an individual's budget, especially if they lack adequate health insurance.  Kidney disease, heart disease, and vision problems are among the long-term complications of diabetes, which further exacerbate the financial strain.

The American Diabetes Association reports that, as of 2019, the average medical expenses for a person with diabetes are 2.3 times higher than those without the condition. A significant contributor to the high patient costs of diabetes management is the need for supplies. These supplies are required to optimize medication delivery and safe glucose monitoring. Depending on the glucose-lowering regimen, most diabetic patients must check their blood glucose levels between one and four times daily. More frequent monitoring is required in high glycemic variability, illness, and symptoms suggestive of hypoglycemia.

The costs associated with managing diabetes can lead to significant out-of-pocket expenses, causing financial stress, debt, and even bankruptcy for some individuals. Unfortunately, not all supplies are covered by medical insurance. The situation is much more dire for those without health insurance coverage. The financial burden of diabetes extends to the families of those affected. Caring for a patient with diabetes can be emotionally and financially taxing. Families may incur additional expenses for caregiving, prescription drugs, and special dietary needs. Furthermore, fearing future complications can affect the family's long-term financial planning.

Diabetes places a significant strain on healthcare systems. The costs of managing diabetes-related medical conditions and complications are substantial. Governments, private insurers, and individuals bear these costs. The IDF estimates that diabetes accounts for over 11% of global healthcare expenditure, with over 80% being direct healthcare costs.

Moreover, diabetes-related hospitalizations, which often result from complications such as heart disease or kidney failure, are a considerable financial burden. Preventing these costly hospitalizations through proper diabetes management and education is essential for reducing the economic impact on healthcare systems. Diabetes financial burdens are not limited to individuals and healthcare systems. This financial burden has broader societal implications. Diabetes can reduce workforce productivity due to absenteeism and presenteeism, where individuals are at work but not fully productive due to their health. The loss of income for both individuals and society can be substantial.

Moreover, the indirect costs of diabetes, such as reduced quality of life and increased social welfare payments, further exacerbate the economic strain on society. Additionally, the financial burden of diabetes extends to lost tax revenue and increased government spending on healthcare programs, which can hinder a country's overall economic growth.

Preventing and effectively managing diabetes are essential steps in mitigating the financial burden. Education and awareness campaigns about healthy lifestyles and regular health check-ups can help reduce the incidence of diabetes. Encouraging physical activity and promoting a balanced diet are crucial public health strategies.

For individuals already living with diabetes, effective management can reduce long-term complications and associated costs. Regular monitoring, medication adherence, and lifestyle modifications are critical. Investment in preventive healthcare, early diagnosis, and access to affordable medications is essential for addressing the financial challenges of diabetes.

The financial burden of diabetes is a multifaceted issue that affects individuals, families, healthcare systems, and society as a whole.  It is not a secret that the prevalence of diabetes continues to rise; therefore, it is imperative to address this crisis through prevention, education, and improved access to healthcare. By doing so, we can reduce the economic strain of diabetes on individuals and society and enhance the quality of life for those affected by this chronic condition.