Malaysia Diabetes: Survey Reveals Gaps in HbA1c Awareness & CGM Adoption

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 24 — A new survey reveals a gap in understanding of long-term diabetes control among Malaysians, despite widespread regular glucose monitoring. While nine out of ten individuals with diabetes in Malaysia routinely check their glucose levels, nearly 40% are unable to recall their HbA1c levels, a crucial measure of average blood glucose control over the preceding three months.

The survey, conducted by Abbott, also indicates a surprisingly positive correlation between self-monitoring and perceived diabetes management success. 77% of those who regularly monitor their glucose, even if unsure of their specific HbA1c level, express confidence in their ability to manage their condition effectively.

Currently, many Malaysians rely on traditional finger-prick blood glucose monitoring. While valuable, this method provides only a snapshot in time, lacking the contextual information of glucose trends that continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) offers. This can lead to a potentially misleading sense of control.

CGM technology tracks glucose fluctuations throughout the day, providing a comprehensive picture of glucose patterns. This allows for more personalized and automated diabetes care. Sven Seyffert, divisional vice president of Abbott’s diabetes care business for Asia Pacific, explained, “Glucose levels fluctuate throughout the day and are influenced by many factors unique to each individual. Using a CGM device can provide a comprehensive, real-time view of glucose trends, which is especially valuable for those who experience frequent fluctuating glucose levels.” Abbott’s FreeStyle Libre sensor, for example, delivers continuous glucose readings every minute for up to 15 days.

The survey also examined awareness of lifestyle factors impacting diabetes management – diet, physical activity, medication, and monitoring. It found that only about 35% of Malaysians with diabetes are currently meeting the Ministry of Health’s (MOH) target of an HbA1c level of 6.5% or lower. Participants were questioned about their daily habits, their perception of how easy it is to control their diabetes, and where they seek information.

Food awareness appears to be relatively high, with 85% of respondents understanding the impact of food and diet on their glucose levels. However, festive occasions present a significant challenge, with 78% finding diabetes management easier during non-festive times compared to 39% during celebrations. This difficulty is particularly pronounced for those using insulin injections.

Interestingly, half of the respondents reported reducing carbohydrate intake as their primary dietary strategy following diagnosis, and almost 90% turn to social media for diet-related advice.

Dr. Chan Siew Pheng, emeritus professor of endocrine medicine at University of Malaya, emphasized the importance of understanding the relationship between food and glucose levels. “Food is perhaps the most vital element in glucose variability, so understanding how it impacts glucose is equally important. Pairing this awareness with tools like continuous glucose monitoring can help individuals better understand how their bodies respond to different foods, empowering them to make better informed choices and optimise other areas of their life that impact glucose levels, like daily activity, medications and handling emotions like stress.”

Beyond diet, the survey revealed that seven in ten respondents consistently take their diabetes medications as prescribed. However, physical activity levels remain low, with only one in five exercising very regularly (five to seven days a week). Those who do exercise regularly tend to have better glucose control. Almost 80% of respondents exercise less than 150 minutes per week, aligning with national data indicating that half of Malaysian adults lead sedentary lifestyles.

When seeking information, the vast majority – 76% – rely on healthcare providers (doctors, dieticians, and nurses), with dieticians being the most trusted source after doctors. A strong sense of social support was also noted, with almost 80% of respondents reporting feeling accepted and supported, which correlated with a reduced tendency to blame their lifestyle for their condition.

The increasing prevalence of diabetes across the Asia-Pacific region is a significant concern, with the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) projecting 253.8 million cases by 2050. Suboptimal glycemic control contributes to a substantial clinical burden, averaging 1,120 Disability-Adjusted Life Years (DALYs) per 100,000 population. In Malaysia, hypoglycemia-related care alone incurs an estimated cost of RM 117.4 million (USD 30 million) annually, representing 0.5% of the Ministry of Health’s budget. A significant portion of the overall cost of diabetes is borne directly by patients through productivity losses and lifestyle changes.

A recent systematic review published in January 2026 further supports the benefits of CGM, consistently demonstrating greater HbA1c reduction compared to traditional self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG).