The Documentary Podcast, Diabetes in Pakistan: A nation's struggle

The Documentary Podcast

Diabetes in Pakistan: A nation's struggle

July 3, 2025

27 minutes

Available for over a year

British-Pakistani pharmacist turned comedian Lubna Kerr hears from doctors, sufferers, and experts as she explores Pakistan’s growing diabetes crisis. With type 2 diabetes rates now the highest in the world, the disease is affecting millions - shaping lives, straining healthcare, and raising questions about prevention. Many sufferers remain undiagnosed, missing crucial early intervention. But for those who do receive a diagnosis, the ability to monitor blood sugar levels regularly is crucial. Lubna hears about patients who struggle to access glucose monitoring kits, essential for adjusting diet and medication. While urban hospitals offer testing, high costs and limited availability mean that many people, especially in rural areas, are left without the tools they need to manage their condition effectively. Lubna explores attitudes toward diabetes and diet - and how myths and stigma prevent people from seeking diagnosis or treatment.