Men and Diabetes: The Risks You Miss — and How to Make Management Easier

Growing up, Greg N. didn’t often see the inside of a doctor’s office.

“I don’t really remember going to the doctor unless I was sick,” he says. “I don’t think I had blood work done until I was an adult.”

But as a delivery driver, Greg had to get a physical every two years to keep his CDL. During one of those visits, his doctors found something he didn’t expect.

“They had me do a urine test,” he says. “And they came back and said, ‘you're diabetic?’ and I was like, ‘not that I'm aware of.’ So, they pricked my finger, and my blood sugar was 512 (mg/dL).”

That’s nearly four times the normal range.

Until then, he had ignored the symptoms: headaches, constant thirst, night sweats, and lack of energy every afternoon.

“It had been going on for so long, he says, “I just kind of went with it.”

Greg isn’t alone. The Cleveland Clinic estimates about 40% of men only go the doctor when they suspect a serious illness. But undiagnosed diabetes can be dangerous, resulting in serious complications like nerve damage, kidney disease, eye issues, and cardiovascular diseases.

But there’s good news: Early intervention can help you successfully manage your diabetes and live a full, healthy life.

Here’s a look at some of the unique challenges men face in diabetes management and diagnosis and how to address them.

Why Men Are Unaware of the Risk Factors

For many men, health isn’t something to worry about until there’s a problem they can’t ignore.

Trips to the doctor might be rare, often reserved for emergencies or mandated work requirements, like Greg’s CDL physical. In fact, a recent survey found 73% of men would rather do a chore they hated, like cleaning the bathroom, than go to the doctor.

There are a few reasons behind this delay in care. Some men avoid the doctor due to fear of bad news, preferring not to know if something is wrong. Others feel embarrassed or judged when discussing personal health topics, like weight or diet. Busy schedules and a belief that symptoms will resolve on their own also contribute, leaving many men to push off care until it’s unavoidable.

Family History

A family history of diabetes is one of the strongest predictors of risk, but it’s also one of the most overlooked. Men often don’t think to ask about their parents’ or siblings’ medical conditions—or assume it doesn’t apply to them.

Knowing your family’s health history can make all the difference, serving as an early warning system that prompts you to stay vigilant.

Lifestyle Habits

Modern life doesn’t always set men up for success when it comes to managing their health. High-stress jobs, fast food meals, and long hours in front of screens create a perfect storm for diabetes. Poor diet and lack of exercise can lead to weight gain, insulin resistance, and rising blood sugar levels.

But lifestyle can also camouflage symptoms. Greg works an active job and has never struggled with his weight, so it was easy to dismiss his symptoms as something other than the Type I diabetes he was eventually diagnosed with.

Stress and lack of sleep add another layer to the problem: Chronic stress floods the body with cortisol, which can interfere with insulin regulation. Meanwhile, poor sleep affects metabolism and increases cravings for sugary, high-carb foods.

For many men, these habits feel like unavoidable parts of life, making it easy to ignore their impact until it’s too late.

Read more: Tips for Managing Your Diabetes at Work

Age and "Normal Aging" Misconceptions

As men get older, they may notice changes like fatigue, frequent urination, or weight fluctuations. Instead of seeing these as red flags for diabetes, they’re often brushed off as "just getting older."

While it’s true that age increases diabetes risk, these symptoms are not inevitable. Catching them early can prevent complications and lead to better outcomes.

Early Signs of Diabetes in Men That Can Get Missed

When diabetes isn’t diagnosed early, the consequences can be severe. Men often don’t recognize the signs—or attribute them to less serious issues—allowing the disease to progress unchecked.

Here are some symptoms to watch for:

• Constant thirst and frequent urination
• Fatigue, headaches, and difficulty concentrating.
• Blurred vision and night sweats
• Unexpected weight changes

Unique Effects for Men

For men, diabetes can bring challenges that are less commonly discussed:

• Erectile Dysfunction: Often an early warning sign of diabetes, ED can result from poor blood flow caused by high glucose levels.
• Heart and Kidney Damage: Diabetes increases the risk of cardiovascular issues and kidney disease, which can go unnoticed until they’re advanced.

But there’s good news, with the right tools you can avoid these risks and stay healthy.

Managing Diabetes and Lifestyle Adjustments

Living with diabetes doesn’t mean you have to give up your normal activities, but it does require some adjustments. A CGM will help you understand how different foods and exercise affect your blood sugar levels so you can adjust accordingly.

For Greg, a CGM literally saved his job. He was required to wear one to keep his CDL, and he started feeling better almost instantly.

“In 90 days after getting the CGM, I dropped my A1C by over 2 points,” he says. “That’s when I really started feeling better—my body was thanking me.”

But as helpful as a CGM can be, it can also bring up other challenges. How do you wear one if you have a lot of body hair? What do you do if it indicates your labor-intensive job causes your blood sugar to spike or drop?

Luckily, there are some strategies that work.

How to Wear a CGM if You Have a Lot of Body Hair

For folks with lots of body hair, wearing a CGM can be tricky. Will it stay on? Will it hurt to take off? If you’re asking questions like these, don’t worry. There are plenty of solutions to make it work.

• Shaving and Patching: If your arms are too hairy for the adhesive to stick well, a quick shave of the application site can give you a clean surface. Greg swears by cleaning the area with an alcohol swab after his shower and shave to keep it clean. Once the CGM is in place, adding a waterproof adhesive patch can keep it secure through sweat, showers, and even a dip in the pool.
• Alternative Placements: Your arms aren’t the only option! Many men find success placing the CGM on their abdomen, upper thigh, or even lower back—areas where hair might not be as dense. Just check the instructions or ask your doctor to ensure the placement is accurate for readings. Greg also recommends switching placement areas every two weeks (your left arm to your right, for example) to avoid skin irritation.
• Skin Prep Products: If shaving isn’t your thing, skin prep sprays or adhesive wipes can help the CGM stick securely. These create a tacky surface that holds up against sweat and movement, making them great for active lifestyles. You can also trim the hair if you’d rather not totally shave it.
• Professional Assistance: If you’re still struggling, talk to your doctor or diabetes educator. They can suggest creative solutions or show you the best way to apply your CGM in a way that works for your body.

Managing Diabetes During Physically Demanding Jobs or Sports

Physical work or intense sports can throw your blood sugar for a loop, but with a little planning, you can keep things steady and avoid surprises.

• Frequent Monitoring: A CGM is your best friend here, giving you real-time data so you can make adjustments before things get out of hand. If you don’t have one, make a habit of checking your blood sugar before, during, and after physical activity to stay on top of it.
• Consistent Snacking: Keep snacks handy that can fuel your body without sending your blood sugar on a rollercoaster. Think nuts, beef jerky, or a low-sugar protein bar—small, portable, and easy to grab when you’re on the go. Greg says keeping a few snacks on hand has helped keep blood sugar spikes at bay.
• Hydration: Don’t underestimate the power of water. Staying hydrated keeps your body running smoothly and can help you avoid the fatigue that makes managing blood sugar harder.
• Pre-Activity Meals: Eating before you dive into a long shift or an intense game can make all the difference. Stick to meals that balance protein and complex carbs—think grilled chicken and brown rice or a hearty salad with beans and quinoa—to give you lasting energy.
• Breaks and Safety: Build short breaks into your schedule to check your levels and refuel. If you’re working with a team, let them know about your diabetes so they can help if something feels off. And always carry quick sugar options, like glucose tablets, just in case.

Read more: The Game-Changing Benefits of CGMS for Diabetic Athletes

Managing diabetes during a busy or active lifestyle can feel overwhelming at first, but with a little preparation, it becomes just another part of your routine.

Mental Health and Support

Anxiety and depression often accompany diabetes, especially after a diagnosis. Seeking help is crucial. Whether it’s therapy, support groups, or simply talking to family and friends, proactive mental health care can make diabetes management much easier.

It’s never too early—or too late—for men to take control of their health. Understanding risk factors, recognizing symptoms, and adopting proactive management strategies are key to living well with diabetes. From small changes like regular checkups and better diet choices to embracing tools like CGMs, there are countless ways to stay ahead of the condition.

Greg, for one, is glad he didn’t wait a second longer to start taking control of his health.

“Looking back now, I don’t know how I managed without a CGM. It gave me peace of mind knowing I had the tools to stay on track."

He urges men in his position to stop putting their health off. When you know what’s going on with your body, you can take steps to change it, he says.

“Go get an annual physical with lab work every year. The sooner you catch a disease like this, the better off you’ll be.”