LEBANON (Enmaeya Features) - November 14, 2025
As the world marks World Diabetes Day on November 14, the spotlight turns to Lebanon, where managing diabetes requires balancing health needs with economic and system-level challenges. For many Lebanese people living with diabetes, access to proper care, affordability of medications, and routine monitoring remain ongoing concerns.
What Do the Numbers Say?
The prevalence of type 2 diabetes (T2D) in Lebanon continues to evolve. A recent cross-sectional study analyzing data from over 4,000 laboratory records estimated that around 17% of participants had type 2 diabetes. This rate is notably higher than earlier national surveys, which reported a previously diagnosed diabetes prevalence of 7.95% among the general population.
“Most of the cases I treat involve obesity and type 2 diabetes, which is the most common form in Arab countries,” Dr. Charlotte Abou Elias, an internal medicine, endocrinology, and diabetes specialist, told Enmaeya.
“We also see type 1 diabetes, especially among younger patients. Some of my patients use insulin pumps, while others manage with regular insulin injections,” Dr. Abou Elias said.
The Importance of Medication
Access to diabetes medications is an important part of care for patients in Lebanon. Common oral medications, such as metformin, are widely used, and insulin and newer therapies are available for patients who need them.
Patients work closely with their healthcare providers to ensure they have the right treatment plan and dosage. Maintaining a steady supply of medications and adapting to any changes in availability are key parts of managing the condition effectively.
“Today, the price for 1,500 units of insulin ranges between $30 and $50, while injection needles cost around $6 to $10, thanks to local alternatives. Inhibitor tablets are about $50, or around $12 for local generics. With these local and generic options combined, the total usually comes to roughly $100,” Dr. Abou Elias explained.
Supporting Patients’ Needs
In Lebanon, public and private health coverage helps many diabetes patients access care. Endocrinology specialists and diabetes clinics provide essential services, while ongoing efforts continue to expand access to advanced management tools, such as frequent HbA1c testing, continuous glucose monitoring, and newer-generation medications.
Dr. Abou Elias told Enmaeya that the Lebanese Red Cross also provides support to diabetes patients, while the Chronic Care Center, under the Ministry of Public Health, offers assistance to patients with type 1 diabetes.
“If the Health Ministry supports local medicine manufacturing and reduces production costs, medications can be provided to patients at more affordable prices,” Dr. Abou Elias said.
“There are numerous primary healthcare clinics under the Ministry of Social Affairs across Lebanon. For example, there are only two in Bourj Hammoud. These centers need to employ endocrinologists and diabetes specialists to ensure patients receive comprehensive care,” she added.
As World Diabetes Day highlights the challenges and progress in diabetes care, Lebanon continues to advance efforts to support patients, improve access, and ensure a healthier future for all living with the condition.
