68% of Employees with Diabetes in Pakistan Face Workplace Discrimination: IDF Study
November 12, 2025
A recent International Diabetes Federation (IDF) survey has revealed that over two-thirds (68%) of employees living with diabetes in Pakistan have experienced discrimination or bias at work because of their condition — the highest rate among all surveyed countries, followed by India (55%) and the United States (42%).
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Key Findings
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58% of employees with diabetes have considered quitting their jobs due to workplace stigma.
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Employees with Type 1 diabetes are more affected, with 72% reporting negative experiences, compared to 41% of those with Type 2 diabetes.
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Over 50% said they were denied short breaks or time off necessary for diabetes management.
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37% reported missing career development opportunities due to their condition.
The study also highlighted that fear of discrimination leads many workers to hide their diagnosis: only 1 in 20 employees disclosed their condition to their employer, while half kept it secret to avoid being treated differently.
Daily Challenges at Work
Routine diabetes management remains a major challenge. Around 22% of employees felt uncomfortable administering insulin at work, and 16% hesitated to check their blood glucose levels in the workplace. Lack of understanding and support from employers adds to the stress and reduced productivity of affected employees.
Erum Ghafoor, IDF Vice President and President of the National Association of Diabetes Educators of Pakistan (NADEP), described the findings as “deeply concerning,” stressing that workplaces must create inclusive environments with flexible schedules, privacy for glucose checks, and supportive supervision.
With 33 million people in Pakistan currently diagnosed with diabetes — nearly 27% of the population — and another 8.9 million undiagnosed, the report urges urgent action to ensure workplace equity and health support for employees managing chronic conditions.
“No one should have to hide their condition out of fear or be denied opportunities. Simple steps from employers can make a world of difference,” said Ms. Ghafoor.
