Workplace discrimination against diabetic employees in Pakistan exceeds 50%, IDF report warns

IDF highlights rising workplace discrimination against diabetic employees in Pakistan

KARACHI: Workplace discrimination against diabetic employees in Pakistan has reached deeply concerning levels, according to a new International Diabetes Federation (IDF) report released on World Diabetes Day. The study identifies that more than 50% of employees living with diabetes in Pakistan have considered quitting their jobs because of negative behavior, stigma, and lack of support in the workplace.

The report emphasizes that workplace discrimination against diabetic employees remains a critical issue affecting emotional well-being, productivity, and long-term career prospects.

Rising stigma, emotional distress

According to the IDF survey, 68% of diabetic employees reported discrimination or negative treatment at work, while 58% feared losing their jobs or being mistreated due to their condition. A significant number admitted that these fears had pushed them to contemplate resignation.

IDF Vice President and President of the National Association of Diabetes Educators of Pakistan, Erum Ghafoor, termed the findings “alarming” and stated that no individual living with diabetes should be made to feel isolated, unsafe, or marginalized at their workplace.

Severe challenges for both type-1, type-2 diabetic employees

The report highlights worrying disparities:

• 72% of employees with type-1 diabetes experienced discriminatory behavior.
• 41% of employees with type-2 diabetes faced similar challenges.
• 52% were denied necessary medical breaks or leave required to manage their condition.

These patterns, according to the IDF, show structural neglect and inadequate workplace policies that fail to accommodate the daily medical needs of diabetic individuals.

Impact on career progression, performance

Workplace discrimination not only affects emotional health but also hinders professional growth. The research shows:

• 37% of diabetic employees missed out on promotions or training opportunities.
• Many avoided insulin administration (22%) or glucose checks (16%) due to lack of private space or fear of judgment.
• Nearly half confided only in one trusted colleague, indicating a lack of safe environments for communication.

Diabetes educator and type-1 diabetes advocate Anum Anwar explained that managing diabetes requires frequent monitoring, timely meals, medication, and access to appropriate equipment—factors that are often misunderstood by employers.

Pakistan records highest workplace discrimination globally

The IDF report identifies Pakistan as the country with the highest workplace discrimination against diabetic employees, compared with 55% in India and 42% in the United States, highlighting an urgent need for national workplace reforms.

Call for supportive workplace policies

Erum Ghafoor stressed that diabetic employees deserve dignity and equal opportunity. She urged employers to:

• Offer flexible work hours.
• Provide designated private spaces for insulin and glucose testing.
• Implement supportive health policies.
• Encourage open conversation about chronic health conditions.

As part of its World Diabetes Day campaign, the IDF is calling for stronger workplace wellness programs and awareness initiatives to ensure that diabetic individuals are treated fairly and respectfully.

---

Stay informed and protect your health!

CLICK HERE TO JOIN Medical News Pakistan on WhatsApp for expert tips, health updates, and the latest medical research straight to your phone.