Citation

Gerbo RM, Jin CF, Clark K. Curr. Diab. Rep. 2019; 19(11): e119.

Affiliation

Department of Medicine, Section of General Internal Medicine, West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, WV, USA.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2019, Holtzbrinck Springer Nature Publishing Group)

DOI

10.1007/s11892-019-1234-2

PMID

31686223

Abstract

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The effects of hypoglycemia can result in injury, including at work. Our goal was to review the recent medical literature regarding hypoglycemia and occupational injuries and provide guidance to clinicians asked to render opinions regarding fitness for work duties in individuals with diabetes. RECENT FINDINGS: Recent studies contain conflicting conclusions regarding the occupational risks posed by workers with diabetes. However, the US Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration concluded there was sufficient evidence to change the rule that previously disqualified commercial drivers with insulin-treated diabetes. Blanket employment policies that disqualify workers with diabetes are unnecessary in many occupational fields. In assessing occupational risks and fitness for duty in workers with diabetes, it is important to perform an individualized assessment of the worker and consider the risk factors for hypoglycemia, information from the treating clinician, essential functions of the job, and, if needed, availability of reasonable accommodations.

Language: en

Keywords

Diabetes; Hypoglycemia; Occupational hazards; Workplace accommodations