1 in 10 Hong Kong People Has Diabetes - How to Manage It? Can Patients Buy Insurance?

Diabetes is one of the most common chronic conditions in Hong Kong. According to the Hospital Authority, approximately 700,000 residents live with diabetes, meaning 1 in 10 people is affected. If blood sugar levels remain high over time, diabetes can damage organ functions and lead to complications such as diabetic kidney disease, diabetic retinopathy, or even stroke. Early diagnosis and proper management are, therefore, crucial. While diabetes cannot be cured, it can be effectively managed with medication and lifestyle changes like balanced nutrition. And encouragingly, the insurance market now offers medical and health insurance plans that include specific coverage for diabetics.

Diabetes is a metabolic disorder. After consuming carbohydrates, the body converts them into glucose, which is absorbed into the bloodstream via the small intestine. Normally, the pancreas releases insulin to help glucose enter cells for energy. If insulin production is insufficient or if the body can’t use insulin effectively, blood sugar levels rise.

According to the World Health Organization, a fasting blood glucose level above 7 mmol/L or a reading over 11.1 mmol/L two hours after eating qualifies as diabetes. If your blood sugar is elevated but not yet high enough for diagnosis, this is classified as prediabetes. Regular monitoring is still essential.

Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes is primarily caused by genetic or autoimmune issues that destroy insulin-producing cells. It typically occurs in children and young adults. Daily insulin injections are required, and coverage under traditional medical insurance in Hong Kong may be more limited for these patients.

Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is far more common, making up over 90% of cases. It is mainly caused by poor eating habits, obesity, and a lack of exercise. The body becomes resistant to insulin or cannot use it efficiently, resulting in excess glucose in the bloodstream.

Diabetes can be classified into four types, with Type 2 being the most prevalent.

In early stages, diabetes symptoms may be subtle or even absent. Some patients experience frequent thirst, excessive urination, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, blurred vision, itchy skin, or slow-healing wounds. Others only discover they have diabetes after complications arise. Early detection through regular check-ups is key. Common diagnostic methods include:

• Fasting Blood Glucose Test: Blood sugar is measured after 8 hours of fasting.
• Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT): A baseline blood test is taken, followed by a glucose drink, and then another test two hours later to assess the body’s response.

While diabetes cannot be cured, it can be effectively controlled through the following:

• Dietary Therapy: Maintain a balanced diet, eat smaller, frequent meals, and avoid high-sugar and alcoholic foods to help stabilise blood sugar.
• Oral Medications: Doctors may prescribe drugs that stimulate insulin production, improve insulin sensitivity, or reduce glucose absorption.
• Insulin Injections: Required for Type 1 diabetics and some Type 2 patients who don’t respond to oral medication. There are various types, including short-acting and long-acting insulin.

If left untreated or poorly managed, diabetes can lead to serious complications: stroke, retinal disease, cataracts, heart disease, kidney failure, limb ulcers, or amputations. Sudden hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia can also pose life-threatening risks.

Adopting a healthy lifestyle can help prevent diabetes:

• Eat a low-fat, low-sugar, low-salt, and high-fibre diet.
• Engage in at least 30 minutes of exercise five days a week.
• Maintain a healthy weight. For Asians, a BMI of 18.5–22.9 is recommended.

You’re considered high-risk if you have high blood pressure, high cholesterol, a BMI over 23, are over age 45, or have a family history of diabetes. Women who previously had gestational diabetes are also at greater risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later, even if symptoms resolved post-pregnancy.

Like many chronic illnesses, diabetes used to be a major barrier to getting medical insurance. Fortunately, many insurers in Hong Kong have relaxed restrictions for diabetics, especially for Type 2 diabetes. Both health insurance and critical illness coverage are now more accessible, though complications such as blindness, heart disease, or kidney failure may still be excluded.

Insurance for Type 1 Diabetes

Due to the early onset and reliance on insulin, people with Type 1 diabetes often face stricter underwriting. Many standard medical plans exclude them or apply higher premiums and exclusions. These individuals may have limited access to mainstream plans and should consult specialists for tailored coverage.

Insurance for Type 2 Diabetes

Applicants with Type 2 diabetes generally have more insurance options, especially if their condition is stable and well-controlled. While some exclusions may still apply, many insurers are now willing to offer coverage, sometimes with minor premium loadings.

Yes. In recent years, several insurance providers in Hong Kong have launched dedicated health insurance plans for diabetics.

• YF Life's PrimeHealth Diabetes Care offers protection against diabetes-related critical illnesses such as blindness, heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, and limb amputation.
• Sun Life’s SunWell Essential Care accepts diabetic applicants and provides lifelong cancer coverage.

These plans differ in terms of benefit structure and underwriting requirements. For personalised advice, it is best to consult the official  product brochures or seek help from a 10Life insurance advisor.

Sources: Hospital Authority, Hong Kong Diabetes Federation, public media, and insurance provider materials

Last updated: October 31, 2024

What factors influence the cost of medical insurance for diabetics in Hong Kong?

The cost of medical insurance for diabetics in Hong Kong depends on several factors, including the type of diabetes, the applicant’s age, how well the condition is controlled, and the presence of any related complications such as kidney or heart disease. Generally, applicants with Type 2 diabetes that is stable and well-managed may face only a small premium loading. However, people with Type 1 diabetes often face stricter underwriting and higher costs, or may be limited to specialised plans. Other factors like existing health conditions, lifestyle habits, and the selected benefit level also impact premiums.

Can I switch insurance plans if I find a better one for my diabetes?

Switching is possible, but caution is required. In Hong Kong, health insurance for diabetics, especially Voluntary Health Insurance Scheme (VHIS) plans, may have different underwriting criteria. If your diabetes is well-controlled, some insurers may accept you under new terms. However, switching plans might result in loading, exclusions or reset of early claim period. It's important to avoid letting your current policy lapse before the new one is approved. Consulting a licensed insurance advisor before making a switch is strongly recommended.