The Social Security Organization (SOCSO) reportedly spends RM421 million annually to cover sugar-related cases, including chronic diseases such as diabetes and its complications.
The costs include hospital treatment, medicines, medical devices, and other health support needed by patients, making sugar-related diseases among the main contributors to the agency's high expenses.
According to SOCSO, the increase in cases each year raises serious concerns because it not only burdens the health system, but also affects the country's productivity when many workers are forced to take long leave or quit their jobs due to complications.
In addition, the financial impact is also felt by the patient's family who have to bear additional costs for daily care, thus increasing the economic pressure on households.
SOCSO emphasizes that preventive measures should be emphasized by encouraging the community to adopt a healthy lifestyle, a balanced diet, and regular health check-ups.
The agency also called for public awareness to be increased through education and advocacy programs, as controlling sugar from an early stage can reduce the risk of serious diseases that lead to high treatment costs.
SOCSO explained that reducing sugar-related cases can not only ease the burden of annual expenses, but also improve the quality of life of the people and ensure that the country's workforce remains productive.
