From awareness to action: Helping people reduce their risk of type 2 diabetes

Diabetes is one of the world's fastest-growing health challenges 

When most people think about diabetes, they think about blood sugar, medication, or lifestyle changes. But diabetes is much more than a health condition. It can affect a person's ability to work, increase healthcare costs, place additional pressures on families, and affect long-term wellbeing.  

That reality is becoming increasingly important as type 2 diabetes continues to rise around the world. Today, diabetes affects 589 million people globally, while an estimated 252 million people are living with the condition without knowing it.¹

 

Through our partnership with IDF, Sunlife is helping more people understand their risk of developing type 2 diabetes and take action earlier. A key part of that effort is supporting the promotion of the Test2Prevent risk assessment tool, a simple online questionnaire available in 16 languages that helps people better understand their likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes over the next 10 years. Based on the results, the tool provides guidance on the next steps, from adopting healthier habits to speaking with a healthcare professional for further advice and testing. 

Sunlife's 2026 World Diabetes Day theme reflects that focus:  Take control  today. Shape what's next. 

Turning awareness into action 

Since 2012, Sunlife has invested more than $69 million globally in community initiatives that help improve lives and expand access to health and wellness resources. By supporting diabetes prevention, education and care in communities around the world, Sunlife is helping people make informed decisions about their health and take meaningful steps toward healthier futures.  

In the United States

Sunlife works alongside the American Diabetes Association to support initiatives such as Project Power, which helps increase awareness, education and prevention efforts in communities across the country. Sunlife also supports  #SunLifeDunk4Diabetes, helping bring greater visibility to diabetes prevention.  

In Canada

Sunlife supports initiatives that strengthen diabetes education, awareness and care, including Sunlife's Diabetes Care Program and partnerships with organizations such as Right To Play and YMCA of Three Rivers. This World Diabetes Day, Sunlife is also collaborating with BGO Properties, a GreenOak company, across Canada to raise diabetes awareness and encourage more people to understand their risk and take the Test2Prevent assessment.

Across Asia

Sunlife supports community-based diabetes awareness, screening and health coaching programs that help people better understand their risk, build healthier habits and access practical guidance.  

Together, these efforts are helping more people take action today and build healthier futures for tomorrow.  

¹International Diabetes Federation, IDF Diabetes Atlas, 11th edition, 2025.