Union Assurance represented Sri Lanka at the IDF World Diabetes Congress 2025 in Bangkok, Thailand.
Organised by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), the Congress brought together over 6,800 participants from over 165 countries on the theme, “Shape the Future of Diabetes”, serving as a premier global platform for sharing the latest scientific breakthroughs, innovative care models and impactful advocacy strategies in diabetes prevention and management as a cure is still elusive.
At the Congress, Union Assurance showcased its flagship CSR initiative, Suwamaga — a pioneering programme dedicated to reducing the incidence of diabetes across Sri Lanka. Designed as a holistic, community-centred approach, Suwamaga focuses on raising awareness, promoting active lifestyles, facilitating early detection and empowering individuals with the knowledge and tools to manage their health.
A key highlight of the initiative is the Suwamaga Mobile Screening Unit, launched in November 2024, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health.
This fully-equipped mobile unit travels across the country—from urban centres to remote villages—offering free diabetes screenings which is an evidence-based modality of Diabrisk-sl, a research project conducted in collaboration with Kings College, London.
This is conducted by certified healthcare professionals, nutritionists and other trained health workers. The service is open to all Sri Lankans, regardless of whether they are Union Assurance customers or not, ensuring equitable access to essential health services to all.
Since its launch, the Mobile Screening Unit has reached over 26,000 individuals, with more than 15,000 receiving free diabetes screenings. Each participant is provided with a detailed health report and personalised medical advice, enabling early intervention and informed health decisions.
Notably, 12% of those referred for HbA1c testing were found to be unaware that they had diabetes and persons with high blood sugar levels were immediately referred to hospitals.
“Presenting Suwamaga at the IDF World Diabetes Congress was a proud moment for us,” said Mahen Gunarathna, the Chief Marketing Officer of Union Assurance.
“This initiative reflects our unwavering commitment to enriching community well-being and our belief in the transformative role the private sector can play in driving meaningful change,” he said.
