Chronic disease in the workplace has been a topic for many years, but after the global pandemic, it has become much more relevant. Since COVID-19, employers have seen a spike in chronic disease in the office. 

In this article, we will discuss chronic disease and what is being seen. 

Benefits Canada’s 2023 Chronic Disease at Work

Earlier this year, there was a conference all about chronic disease at work.

“Employees are looking around for not just a safe workplace; they’re looking now for a healthy workplace, really focusing on their wellness,” said Peter Nord, chief medical officer at Medcan, noting this change in employees’ mindsets was accelerated by the pandemic.

What does this mean for the future?

Nord believes that we will continue to see the aftermath of the pandemic as we have since the lockdowns were lifted. People are still waiting for surgeries to be had and now people are being diagnosed with diseases at later stages of progression because of the backlog of appointments. Still to this day, years later.

And like we’ve touched on it in past articles, people are coping with the aftermath of the pandemic. This coping can and is causing an array of mental health diagnoses. 

Diseases we’re seeing in the workplace.

Nord noted during the conference the link between diabetes and the coronavirus appears to flow both ways. Diabetes was recorded as a risk factor for worse outcomes if contracting the virus. And, new emerging studies have found that some people are developing diabetes after having the virus. 

Nord also highlighted atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases. Those who have had the coronavirus, have a higher risk of developing these diseases for up to a year after they’ve had the virus.

What to look out for when it comes to chronic disease.

While it may seem like the coronavirus is long gone from our lives, employers should be on the lookout for the after effects of the pandemic and virus within employees. This includes anyone who may seem to be struggling with their mental health and wellbeing, chronic sickness, feelings of burnout or plain lack of motivation and happiness. 

If these things become noticeable, speak with the employee and see what can be done for them. 

Reach out to Navy & Sage Benefits.

There was a lot of great information given during that conference. If you’re hoping to learn more about chronic diseases and how it affects the workplace, reach out to us today. We’d be happy to share more of our resources and articles with you.