Life Insurance and Diabetes in Canada: What to Know
Diabetes is becoming increasingly common in Canada, and many people living with it wonder how it affects their ability to get life insurance.
The short answer is this: having diabetes does not automatically prevent you from getting life insurance. However, it does change how insurers assess risk, and understanding that process can reduce uncertainty and stress.
This article explains how life insurance and diabetes are viewed in Canada, in clear, practical terms.
Why Insurers Ask About Diabetes
Life insurance underwriting is based on long-term risk assessment. Diabetes is relevant because it can be associated with higher risks of certain health complications over time — but risk is not binary.
Insurers are not asking:
- “Do you have diabetes, yes or no?”
They are asking:
- How well is it managed?
- What type of diabetes is it?
- Are there complications?
- How stable has your health been over time?
Type 1 vs Type 2 Diabetes
Insurers distinguish between different types of diabetes.
Type 1 diabetes
- Typically diagnosed earlier in life
- Requires insulin management
- Underwriting focuses on long-term control and stability
Type 2 diabetes
- Often diagnosed later in life
- May be managed through lifestyle, medication, or insulin
- Underwriting focuses on management, duration, and overall health
Neither type automatically disqualifies someone from coverage.
What Insurers Look At Most
When reviewing an application involving diabetes, insurers commonly consider:
- A1C levels (a measure of blood sugar control over time)
- Length of time since diagnosis
- Medication type and consistency
- Lifestyle factors (diet, activity, smoking status)
- Presence or absence of complications
- Overall cardiovascular health
Consistent management often matters more than the diagnosis itself.
How Diabetes Can Affect Insurance Rates
Depending on individual circumstances, diabetes may result in:
- standard rates
- mildly rated premiums
- or, in some cases, limited product options
The outcome depends on how controlled the condition is, not simply that it exists.
Many people with well-managed diabetes qualify for reasonable and affordable coverage.
Term Life vs Permanent Life with Diabetes
Both term and permanent life insurance may be available.
- Term life insurance is often the most accessible and affordable option
- Permanent insurance may be available in certain cases, depending on stability and history
The right choice depends on goals, budget, and long-term needs — not just health alone.
What About Medical Exams and Tests?
Some applications involving diabetes may require:
- medical questionnaires
- lab work or blood tests
- physician reports
These requirements aren’t meant to create barriers — they help insurers assess risk more accurately and fairly.
Providing clear, up-to-date information can make a meaningful difference.
Why Timing and Preparation Matter
Applying when diabetes is:
- stable
- well-managed
- and documented
often leads to better outcomes than applying during periods of change or uncertainty.
Taking time to understand the process — and not rushing — can improve both clarity and results.
Common Misconceptions
A few things worth clarifying:
- Diabetes does not automatically mean denial
- Insurers look at trends, not single readings
- Good management can outweigh length of diagnosis
- Coverage options today are broader than many people expect
Outdated assumptions often cause unnecessary worry.
A Final Thought
Living with diabetes already involves daily attention and responsibility. Applying for life insurance shouldn’t add unnecessary stress.
The Canadian life insurance system is designed to assess people as they are, not exclude them by default. With clear information, realistic expectations, and a thoughtful approach, many people with diabetes are able to secure meaningful life insurance coverage.
Understanding how the process works helps replace fear with clarity — and allows decisions to be made calmly, on your own terms.