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DDEA Global Health Podcast
How can global policy efforts better support and manage care in low-resource settings worldwide?
Type 1 diabetes requires lifelong and carefully monitored treatment. However, low- and middle-income countries face difficulties in providing optimal treatment due to limited resources and infrastructure.
In its first series, The DDEA Global Health Podcast dives into the challenges in type 1 diabetes care and research in low- and middle-income countries, and meets experts who are paving the way to progress with concrete actions.
The topics of this series include: lived experiences, the WHO Global Diabetes Compact, data foundations, access to insulin and supplies, healthcare systems, philanthropic programmes, and advocacy.
Producer and publisher: Danish Diabetes and Endocrine Academy (www.ddeacademy.dk)
Audio editor: Mediehuset Periskop
DDEA Global Health Podcast
Episode 2: Living with Type 1 Diabetes in Kenya
In this episode, we hear from Newton Ngugi, who was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes as a teenager in Kenya. He shares a personal story of struggle and resilience—from the shock of diagnosis and years of hiding his condition to the turning point that led him to embrace advocacy. Newton reflects on the limitations of healthcare systems in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), the importance of peer support, and how community-driven solutions can drive global change.
Key Topics Discussed:
✔ The emotional and social impact of a late type 1 diabetes diagnosis in a low-resource setting
✔ Stigma, denial, and the search for acceptance
✔ Financial and systemic barriers to diabetes care in Kenya
✔ The role of peer support, community networks, and mentorship
✔ Navigating school and social life while managing a chronic condition
✔ Gaps in healthcare education and the need for broader awareness
✔ Reflections on policymaking, global disparities, and sustainable solutions
✔ Newton’s current work at the World Diabetes Foundation—and why lived experience matters in global health policy
Hosts:
- Gretchen Repasky, Education and Networking Manager, Danish Diabetes and Endocrine Academy, Denmark
- Jessica Zafra, Postdoctoral Researcher, University of Geneva, Switzerland
Guest: Newton Ngugi, Programme Manager, World Diabetes Foundation, Kenya
Find more resources at:
DDEA
World Diabetes Foundation
Credits and Contact Information:
Producer and publisher: Danish Diabetes and Endocrine Academy (www.ddeacademy.dk)
Audio editor: Mediehuset Periskop
This podcast was produced in connection with the international meeting Type 1 Diabetes, Advancing a Global Roadmap for Improved and Integrated Care in Low-Resource Settings, held in early February 2025 in Copenhagen, Denmark. This meeting was organised and hosted by the World Diabetes Foundation, the Danish Diabetes and Endocrine Academy, the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Geneva, and the East African Diabetes Study Group.