Less than half of American workers with diabetes think they have what they need in the workplace regarding their health, according to a recent poll of members of dLife, a community network and resource for people living with diabetes.

Just 38 percent of diabetics say their jobs afford them extra time, privacy and an adjustable schedule to manage their condition. U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission guidelines state employers cannot ask an employee about their condition unless it is significantly difficult or expensive. Employers must provide adjustments or modifications to enable people with disabilities to enjoy equal employment opportunities.

"Many people living with diabetes are hesitant to ask for breaks for blood sugar testing or other accommodations at work because they fear their employer might wrongly interpret it as a limitation," says Paula Ford-Martin, editor-in-chief of dLife. "The reality is, however, that people living with diabetes are not only fully productive employees, but are legally protected in the workplace and should understand the full scope of their rights from their very first job interview."