Living well with diabetes and beyond

This World Diabetes Day and National Diabetes Month, we shine a light on diabetes — the leading cause of chronic kidney disease. Discover practical ways and resources to protect your health, support your well-being and join us in our commitment to living well, every day.

Why diabetes matters to us all

Diabetes is one of the world’s fastest-growing health challenges. It affects 1 in 9 adults globally, yet 4 in 10 don’t even know they have it.¹ Beyond the numbers, it touches the lives of many of our patients, colleagues, their families, and communities .

At Fresenius Medical Care, we believe living well is possible. Whether you live with diabetes, care for someone who does, or simply want to protect your health, small steps and supportive workplaces make a big difference.

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Diabetes and kidney health

Diabetes, type 1 and type 2, can both impact kidney health. While they differ in how they develop, both forms raise the risk of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Up to 40% of people with diabetes will develop CKD.² When blood sugar stays too high for too long, it damages the kidneys’ ability to function properly, making it harder for them to clear waste and balance fluids. Over time, this silent strain can progress to chronic kidney disease (CKD) and end stage kidney disease (ESKD), affecting overall health and quality of life. If left unmanaged, diabetes can also lead to other serious complications like heart disease and vision loss.

Prevention of type 2 diabetes and early action make a difference

Having diabetes doesn’t mean that kidney damage is inevitable. Knowing your risk and acting sooner can help prevent or slow complications. Understanding risk factors for type 2 diabetes, like family history, lifestyle, and age, can help everyone make more informed health decisions. Regular check-ups with your physician are vital; simple tests, like a glucose tolerance test or HbA1c, can detect diabetes long before any symptoms appear, giving you the power to take early action.

Real voices. Real experiences.

Living with a chronic condition is a unique journey and daily balancing act. The following stories highlight individuals at Fresenius Medical Care who are not defined by their diagnosis, but empowered by the way they adapt and thrive, especially in the workplace. Their experiences remind us that with the right support, awareness, and compassion, people living with diabetes can balance their health and careers with incredible resilience.

Diabetes and the workplace

Our people are at the heart of everything we do, and we believe that thriving employees build a thriving organization. Guided by our values — We Care, We Connect, We Commit — we strive to create a workplace where every individual feels supported, understood, and empowered to live well. Together, we are building not just a healthier organization, but a stronger community of care. From fostering understanding in the workplace to creating resources that promote health and balance, we stand by our people every step of the way.

We Care. Roxana values the caring culture at FME.

The people I've run into in my day-to-day work are so professional and embrace the whole concept of caring for people ... I think it is the caring culture here that makes me feel safe.

Roxana Saad

Business Systems Analyst, U.S.

We Connect. Susanna discovered her diabetes early via a Fresenius Medical Care health check.

My colleagues are quite understanding, and I have been very open with my diagnosis...it's really important to have a workplace where you can be open, you can speak up what you have on your mind and in your heart.

Susanna Andersson

Market and Tender Coordinator, Sweden.

We Commit. Kosasih is living with type 2 diabetes. He values Fresenius Medical Care’s healthcare insurance coverage that supports his family and him.

I receive support from the company’s healthcare insurance, and also from my colleagues, such as our doctor, and the clinical team who advise me to always maintain my diet, take medication regularly, and exercise.

Kosasih

Field Service Engineer, Indonesia.

Small steps. Big impact.

While organizational support and commitment are important parts of the path to living well with diabetes, true well-being also grows from the everyday choices a person makes. Taking small, sustainable steps on a consistent basis can add up to making a big impact over time.

Take the next step

Take your health in your own hands and go the next step. The right tools can make all the difference. From quick risk assessments to simple nutrition strategies, these resources help you understand your body, make smarter choices, and protect your health without feeling overwhelmed.

Check your risk

Type 2 diabetes can develop without obvious symptoms. A quick risk assessment by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) is a powerful first step in protecting your health.

Take the 2-minute risk test

Nourish your health

Healthy eating can be delicious. Discover diabetes and kidney-friendly recipes to inspire your next meal.

Explore healthy recipes

Learn more about diabetes

Understanding diabetes can help you take control of your health. Discover clear, reliable information about diabetes and how it relates to kidney health.

Learn more

Living well with diabetes and protecting your kidneys is a journey. With knowledge, supportive workplaces, everyday habits, and practical tools, you can live a healthier, more vibrant life. Choose a path to living well and create a future where health and fulfillment go hand in hand.

Publication date: November 2025