Insulet launches campaign inspired by the International Diabetes Federation’s focus on diabetes, well-being, and the workplace
“The Day Diabetes Showed Up to Work” campaign recognizes the unique needs of a person with diabetes in their professional life with a new global survey and resources
Data shows that over 1 in 3 respondents feel the overall mental strain of managing diabetes has made their jobs more difficult
Insulet Corporation (NASDAQ: PODD) (Insulet or the Company), the global leader in tubeless insulin pump technology with its Omnipod® brand of products, today announced its new campaign, “The Day Diabetes Showed Up to Work,” in honor of Diabetes Awareness Month, which starts November 1.
“Nearly 590 million people worldwide live with diabetes1, and approximately 70 percent are of working age. Yet too often their experience at work is shaped by misunderstanding, fear of disclosure, and a lack of meaningful support,” said Ashley McEvoy, Insulet President and Chief Executive Officer. “At Insulet, we’re proud to shine a light on this important issue and spark action in the workplace that helps people with diabetes focus on what matters most – doing their best work and living their best lives.”
To better understand the impact of diabetes in the workplace, Insulet commissioned an external global survey2 of 9,656 workers with type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes, as well as caregivers and those without diabetes, across more than 10 sectors in 11 countries.
The survey revealed three key issues faced by people with diabetes (PWD) and their caregivers in their professional life:
Misunderstanding of Diabetes Underscores Need for Education and Broader Support
- 42% of PWD and caregivers surveyed reported experiencing workplace-related anxiety tied to diabetes management
- While 57% of respondents without diabetes say they feel confident3 supporting colleagues with the condition, 21% of PWD say poor awareness from colleagues makes their job more difficult
- 61% without diabetes cannot confidently identify the symptoms of type 1 diabetes, yet almost half are confident naming pop culture references like Harry Potter characters (41%) or their country’s top football teams (46%)
Despite Growing Awareness, Stigma Around Diabetes Remains Deeply Entrenched in Many Workplaces
- 79%4 of PWD have faced bias or misunderstanding at work
- Over one in four (27%) respondents reported fears that diabetes could limit opportunities that can be pursued or lead to discrimination and judgment in the workplace
- Nearly a quarter (21%) of PWDs conceal their condition from colleagues or managers
Creating a Workplace That Supports Diabetes Management Starts with Listening to What Employees Need and Acting on It
- 86%5 of PWD experience barriers at work due to their diabetes andemployers have clear opportunities to improve inclusion
- Offering private spaces, a variety of food options, and adequate breaks can remove obstacles for the 57% of PWD who struggle with at least one of these barriers
- Mindfulness tools also show strong impact, with respondents reporting reduced stress, better sleep, and less anxiety. These are actionable steps that build resilience, reduce burnout, and foster a culture of care
“I wish more employers understood that diabetes may not be a visible chronic illness, but it affects many spheres of our lives, whether it’s in terms of our mental or physical health, or even our emotions,” said Judy Mitri, a communications professional and Omnipod user in Canada. “A little empathy can go a long way.”
This November, Insulet is launching a suite of resources to spark awareness and action around diabetes in the workplace. A dedicated campaign landing page will feature a whitepaper on healthcare provider support, an infographic with key survey insights, personal stories from Omnipod users and employees with diabetes, and practical checklists for supporting colleagues.
This campaign marks the beginning of a sustained effort by Insulet to elevate the conversation around diabetes and well-being. Insulet will continue to drive awareness, support, and inclusion throughout 2026 and beyond.
Additional Diabetes Awareness Month Activities and Events at Insulet
In celebration of Diabetes Awareness Month, Insulet is proud to support a range of meaningful initiatives that raise awareness, foster community, and give back to those impacted by diabetes.
- Charitable Donations: Through its Insulet for Good program, the Company will donate to the American Diabetes Association and the International Diabetes Federation to support workplace-focused programming for people with diabetes.
- Letters of Support for Children: Employees will write handwritten letters of encouragement to children recently diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, in collaboration with Breakthrough T1D.
- Community Event Sponsorships: Insulet will sponsor several community events throughout November, including initiatives by Risely Health, Children with Diabetes, Team Together, Fundación Phabian, and more.
- Employee Stories: Members of Insulet’s Podder® Alliance Network, a group of employees living with, caring for, or supporting people with diabetes, are sharing their perspectives on managing diabetes in the workplace and how diabetes has impacted their professional career.
