The latest report from Sun Life's Designed for Health series highlights a concerning trend in long-term disability (LTD) claims among Canadians. The data indicates that mental disorders, circulatory disorders, and cancer are the leading causes of LTD. However, many employees on disability leave face multiple overlapping health issues, complicating their LTD claims.
Sun Life's analysis of drug claims data from over 1.5 million people on LTD shows that diabetes, mental disorders, and cardiovascular conditions frequently appear as secondary conditions. Those on LTD are twice as likely to claim drugs for chronic diseases related to secondary conditions compared to those not on LTD. They are also three times more likely to claim drugs treating two or more conditions alongside their primary LTD claim.
Diabetes is notably prevalent in many LTD claims. Plan members on LTD leave are nearly three times more likely to have a diabetes drug claim than others, with overall diabetes drug claims rising by 30% from 2019 to 2023 across all claimants.
"Long-term disability claims are often complex and our data tells us that Canadians, more than ever, are struggling when it comes to their health and well-being," says Marie-Chantal Côté, Senior Vice-President at Sun Life Health. "Dealing with multiple chronic conditions can be challenging and requires a holistic and comprehensive approach to recovery."
Supporting employees on LTD involves addressing the complexity of managing multiple health issues which can delay recovery and prolong absence from work. Côté emphasizes the importance of considering the full picture of an employee's health when planning treatment: "The road to recovery looks different for everyone."
Sun Life offers several innovative solutions for supporting plan members:
- A Psychosocial Questionnaire helps case managers understand member health better.
- Medical Confidence provides timely access to specialist care through Kii Health.
- Pharmacogenomic testing aids in finding effective drug treatments faster.
For further details about trends in long-term disability claims in Canada, readers can refer to the 2025 Designed for Health Report.
Sun Life is an international financial services organization offering asset management, wealth insurance, and health solutions globally. As of March 31, 2025, it managed assets totaling $1.55 trillion.