KUALA LUMPUR, August 11 – As alarming statistics reveal that 41% of adult Malaysians are at risk of diabetes due to elevated blood glucose levels, proactive screenings to identify pre-diabetes have become crucial. In response, Sun Life Malaysia, a leading life insurance and family takaful provider, proudly announces the fourth edition of its nationwide Brighter Health Blood Glucose Screening Programme. Running from July to October 2023, the initiative aims to help Sun Life’s Clients and Malaysians detect the early risks associated with diabetes.
The Brighter Health Blood Glucose Screening Programme has been instrumental in Sun Life Malaysia’s ongoing efforts to raise awareness about diabetes prevention, benefiting over 21,000 Malaysians since its launch in 2019. Raymond Lew, CEO and President/Country Head of Sun Life Malaysia, emphasized the importance of the programme, stating, “Diabetes has emerged as a life-threatening non-communicable disease affecting numerous individuals and families in the country. Startling statistics from our 2022 programme revealed that over 40% of adults aged 40 and above had dangerously high blood glucose levels.
Compared to a shocking 15% in young adults aged 18 to 30. That’s why we remain committed to this programme, which aims to educate and empower as many people as possible about the significance of early detection and intervention in preventing diabetes. Lew added, “Globally, Sun Life is at the forefront of promoting awareness, prevention, care, and research of diabetes to build stronger and healthier communities. In Malaysia, we have launched various community outreach initiatives to educate and support Malaysians in taking early preventive steps against type 2 diabetes.
As well as providing financial assistance to those living with type 1 diabetes. Sun Life Malaysia believes that through a simple finger prick to check blood glucose levels, individuals can effectively detect early signs of the disease, enabling timely intervention and mitigation of severe health complications such as kidney failure, eye diseases, and cardiovascular issues. This year, Sun Life Malaysia has once again partnered with renowned health service providers – Walnut Wellness, Roche Malaysia, Health Lane Family Pharmacy Sdn Bhd, and AM PM Pharmacy Sdn Bhd – to offer complimentary blood glucose screenings at 180 Health Lane Family Pharmacy and 47 AM PM Pharmacy outlets nationwide.
Health Lane Family Pharmacy and AM PM Pharmacy will conduct the blood glucose screenings, while Roche Malaysia will provide the glucometer and testing strips. Participants who complete the glucose screening will also receive a RM20 e-voucher via SMS from Roche Malaysia. This voucher can be used to purchase the Accu-Chek Guide Me Standard Kit with 25 test strips at a discounted rate. In addition to the screenings, Malaysians will have the opportunity to book a priority appointment at any of the 44 participating MOG Eyewear outlets nationwide for a complimentary eye health assessment.
This assessment includes a personalised eye profile consultation through their renowned 6-in-1 Vision Experience, valued at RM350, to raise awareness about the risks of diabetes to vision health. “Sun Life Malaysia recognizes that combating diabetes requires collaborative efforts involving the government, organizations, and individuals. Through our Brighter Health Blood Glucose Screening Programme, we aim to stimulate ongoing discussions surrounding this disease and, more importantly, inspire lasting behavioral changes to prevent diabetes,” concluded Lew.
