Living Between Two Worlds: How Young Saudi Adults Manage Type 1 Diabetes and Cultural Life

Type 1 diabetes demands constant attention—blood sugar checks, insulin doses, meal planning, and problem-solving happen every single day. In Saudi Arabia, where family and community bonds run deep, young adults with Type 1 diabetes face a unique challenge: managing an intensive medical condition while navigating social expectations and cultural traditions that shape every aspect of daily life.

A new qualitative study from Frontiers in Public Health examined how 14 Saudi adults aged 18–30 years experience this intersection. Researchers conducted in-depth interviews and identified a striking pattern: many participants described their diabetes as an 'invisible struggle.' Even though the condition requires constant management, young adults often keep it hidden from peers, colleagues, and extended family, fearing judgment or becoming defined by their diagnosis.

In collectivistic societies like Saudi Arabia, meals are communal events tied to family identity, hospitality, and tradition. For young adults with Type 1 diabetes, this creates real friction. The study found that participants had to actively negotiate what they ate and how much, often without full transparency about why.

Rather than viewing this as simple meal planning, the research shows that young adults employed 'cultural food negotiations'—finding ways to participate in family meals and social eating while managing their blood sugar. This wasn't just about saying no to certain foods; it involved creative problem-solving to stay connected to their families and communities while maintaining their health.

For Muslims, Ramadan—the month of fasting from dawn to sunset—is a cornerstone of spiritual life and cultural identity. Young Saudi adults with Type 1 diabetes face a profound tension during this time. The study identified Ramadan as both 'a spiritual and medical challenge,' highlighting the emotional weight of this annual negotiation.

Participants in the study grappled with questions about participation, identity, and safety. The research shows this wasn't simply a medical problem to solve, but a deeply personal question about what it means to be both Muslim and someone managing Type 1 diabetes.

Rather than viewing cultural identity and diabetes management as competing demands, the study found that some young adults developed what researchers called 'resilience through cultural innovation.' These individuals found creative ways to honor their traditions while meeting their medical needs—not by abandoning either, but by weaving them together.

The research identified three narrative patterns in how participants made sense of their experience: some saw themselves on a 'Journey,' others adopted a 'Warrior' mindset, and still others became 'Bridge-Builders' between their cultural world and their medical reality. These identity narratives reveal how people's beliefs about themselves shape their ability to manage both disease and daily life.

The study also noted that some families experienced conflict around diabetes management, underscoring that these challenges are not solely individual—they ripple across households and relationships. Understanding these patterns may help healthcare providers, family members, and communities better support young adults navigating Type 1 diabetes in cultural contexts where family and tradition are central to identity.

Source: Frontiers in public health. Evidence type: PubMed indexed literature. Type1Cure is an information and intelligence hub, not a medical advice service. This article summarizes published research and does not provide diagnosis, treatment, or personal medical guidance. Always talk to your own care team before changing anything about your Type 1 diabetes management.