Pakistan’s Diabetes Crisis Sparks Urgent Calls for Action as 33 Million Affected
At a recent diabetes awareness event in Gulshan-e-Iqbal Town, Karachi, health experts and officials raised alarms over Pakistan’s escalating diabetes crisis, advocating for significant lifestyle changes and stronger health policies to control its spread.
Experts Address Public at Diabetes Awareness Event in Karachi
A large audience gathered as Dr. Fuad Ahmed, Chairman of Gulshan-e-Iqbal TMC, along with Dr. Atif Hafeez, Dr. Abdullah Muttaqi, and Dr. Rehan Ahmed of the Pakistan Islamic Medical Association (PIMA), discussed the contributing factors driving the diabetes epidemic in Pakistan.
Dr. Hafeez Warns of Alarming Surge in Diabetes Cases
Dr. Atif Hafeez, President of PIMA, shared the concerning news that diabetes cases in Pakistan have soared to 33 million, compared to just 500,000 in 2000. He emphasized that Pakistan is now witnessing the world’s highest increase in diabetes, with most new patients aged 25 to 30.
Call to End Sweet-Gifting Culture and Ban Sugary Drink Ads
Dr. Hafeez called for an end to the tradition of gifting sweets during celebrations and proposed a ban on energy and soft drink advertisements, similar to the restrictions placed on cigarette ads, to reduce the risk of diabetes.
PIMA Urges National Screening Despite Resource Challenges
Highlighting that 26.7% of Pakistan’s population is affected by diabetes, Dr. Hafeez pointed out the difficulties of conducting widespread screenings due to limited resources. He urged the government to set up free medical camps across the country to address this growing health crisis.
Gulshan-e-Iqbal Town Leads the Way with Health Benefits for Employees
Dr. Fuad Ahmed shared that, despite limited resources, the town administration provides full healthcare and group insurance to its employees—making it the first town in Sindh to do so. He also highlighted the town’s efforts in rehabilitating 18 parks, renovating six schools, and expanding roads, including a new road at Karachi University.
Lifestyle Adjustments Urged to Curb Diabetes Spread
Dr. Abdullah Muttaqi, President of PIMA Karachi, emphasized the importance of lifestyle changes, such as early rising, regular meals, and reduced fast-food consumption, to help manage diabetes. Dr. Rehan Ahmed added that diabetes rates are lower in rural areas, where active lifestyles and regular walking are common.
Public Awareness Walk Highlights Urgency of Diabetes Crisis
Following the event, an awareness walk from the Gulshan-e-Iqbal Town office to Hasan Square gathered a large crowd, with participants raising slogans to increase awareness about diabetes and emphasize the urgency of addressing the crisis.
Free Screenings in Diabetes Awareness Drive
A key highlight of the event was the setup of a mobile health unit in collaboration with Al Khidmat, offering free health check-ups and blood sugar screenings.
