KARACHI: Experts at a symposium organized by Dow University of Health Sciences (DUHS) have raised concerns over Pakistan’s escalating health crisis, attributing it to unhealthy lifestyle choices. The event, which brought together health professionals and policy experts from around the world, emphasized the urgent need to integrate lifestyle medicine into the nation’s healthcare system.
Speakers at the symposium argued that lifestyle medicine is a critical component of modern healthcare, providing a scientific approach to preventing chronic diseases. They called for a shift from reactive treatment to proactive prevention in Pakistan’s healthcare model.
DUHS Vice Chancellor Prof. Jehan Ara Hassan, while addressing the symposium, underscored the importance of early patient care focused on nutrition, physical activity, and mental well-being. She announced the launch of academic modules on lifestyle and preventive care at DUHS and the establishment of a research center dedicated to lifestyle medicine.
Prof. Hassan highlighted the increasing prevalence of women’s health issues such as polycystic ovarian syndrome and gestational diabetes in Pakistan. She emphasized that lifestyle modifications could significantly reduce the risk of these conditions.
Former DUHS Vice Chancellor Prof. Mohammad Saeed Quraishy discussed the importance of physiotherapy and enhanced recovery protocols in post-surgical care, noting the advancements in recovery times due to innovations like Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS).
Prof. Kashif Shafiq, in his keynote address, stressed the empowerment that lifestyle medicine offers, enabling individuals to live disease-free and purposefully. He noted that lifestyle factors such as sleep and emotional connection are measurable indicators of health.
Dr. Tariq Furman expressed concern about the rising incidence of heart disease among Pakistani youth and called for centers focused on training individuals in healthy living practices. He criticized the lack of systematic prevention and awareness programs in major cities like Karachi.
Dr. Shagufta Feroz and Dr. Ilyas Yamani, joining from abroad, shared insights into the growing adoption of lifestyle medicine globally. They emphasized the importance of interdisciplinary teams in making lifestyle medicine effective.
Dr. Salma Mehr highlighted the negative impact of changing dietary habits among children, warning against the long-term health damage caused by processed foods.
The symposium concluded with a consensus that the future of healthcare in Pakistan lies in lifestyle changes, public awareness, and supportive environments. Participants lauded DUHS’s initiatives as a promising step toward promoting lifestyle medicine in the country.