In conjunction with the UN World Diabetes Day, we join the effort to raise awareness among our readers of the risks of the disease, particularly to seafarers and the increased risk during the Covid-19 pandemic. Here is what we can do to minimize risks, save lives and ensure safety at sea.

Diabetes is a killer. It is among the top 10 causes of death globally – every 8 seconds someone dies from the condition. In 2019, it was reported that 4.2 million people died from diabetes, with almost half the deaths occurring before the age of 60.

Diabetes affected 463 million people worldwide last year, that is one in eleven adults:

By 2030, it is estimated that this number will increase to one in ten adults, that is 578 million people; and by 2045, it is projected that one in nine adults will suffer from diabetes, that is 700 million people.

Fifth leading cause of death in the Philippines

In the Philippines, the country supplying the highest number of seafarers, diabetes is listed as the fifthleading cause of death according to 2018 Philippine Health Statistics.

Obesity is an important risk factor in the development of diabetes. In addition, heavy smoking and lack of exercise contribute to the total risk picture for seafarers.

Source: https://www.ifsma.org/resources/Good-Health-for-Seafarers-Guide-MtS.pdf

The current crew crisis, brought about by the pandemic, has led to many seafarers having to remain on onboard beyond their contractual period, adding further pressure.

That said, the good news is that the risk of developing the disease can be greatly reduced. According to the IDF, there is “overwhelming evidence from studies…that lifestyle changes (achieving a healthy body weight and moderate physical activity) can help prevent the development of Type 2 diabetes”.

In addition to increased exercise, adjustments in diet are also very important. ISWAN’s Guidelines for Healthy Food Onboard Merchant Ships provide lots of good tips for healthy food plans on board.

Impacts safety onboard

Seafarers using insulin or some other medicines against diabetes, are at risk of developing low blood sugar. Their performance of tasks, including safety-critical ones, can be impacted if their blood sugar dips below normal, resulting in hypoglycemia. This may result in a slowing of response; poor judgment of risk or behavioral changes with increased irritability and risk taking; and in the worst case, incapacity and loss of consciousness. Therefore, proper management of the condition is crucial. Regular eating, physical activity and monitoring are key factors. Irregular working hours on board makes it more difficult to regulate the balance between insulin dose and food consumption and there may be situations which prevent food intake, such as sea sickness which could require the insulin dose to be adjusted.

Unfortunately, there have been incidents where failure to control diabetes have led to medical emergencies at sea. Some have been fatal, while many more have required medical evacuation to hospital. Glucometers play an important role in helping to manage the disease. Specialists recommend that every diabetic should keep a glucometer handy. Ideally ships should beequipped with them so glucose levels can be measured when medically necessary. Even if someone is not a known diabetic, it can be important to test glucose levels in certain instances to rule out a condition or give the right treatment.

All persons with diagnosed, suspected or increased risk for diabetes should check average blood glucose level by a test otherwise known as glycated hemoglobin or HbA1c level. The level should be lower than 6 per cent. This test shows average blood sugar level over the last six weeks, rather than the snapshot provided by the usual blood glucose level test. Steady and decent average blood glucose levels can be a helpful indicator that the seafarer has good control of their diabetes. It is recommended to include such testing in the pre-employment medical examination of crew.

Four tips to reduce risks during the pandemic

The Covid-19 pandemic imposes new challenges, fears and uncertainties for all diabetics, including seafarers. While they are not more susceptible than the general population to get Covid-19, it seems that diabetics (both types) have higher risks of developing serious complications or even dying from the virus.

Fortunately, not everyone with diabetes is at the same level of risk – outcomes are more promising if the diabetes is well-controlled. This makes it even more important that diabetic seafarers are properly managing their condition.

There is considerable debate on the most appropriate way to manage people with diabetes during this pandemic. The IDF has published advice on Covid-19 and diabetes which includes the following recommendations for diabetes sufferers:

1. Pay extra attention to glucose control. Regular monitoring can help avoid complications.
2. If showing flu-like symptoms (raised temperature, cough, difficulty breathing), it is important to consult a healthcare professional. If coughing up phlegm, this may indicate an infection. Seek medical support and treatment immediately.
3. Any infection is going to raise glucose levels and increase the need for fluid intake.
4. Keep a regular schedule: avoid overwork and make sure to get a good night’s sleep.

Above all, shipowners should encourage prompt reporting of any symptoms, even mild ones, particularly of diabetic crew members, who should be closely monitored.

The International Chamber of Shipping has published a very helpful Guidance for Ship Operators for the Protection of the Health of Seafarers relating to the Coronavirus, which we recommend shipowners to follow.

Source: Gard