Karachi, Health experts have raised alarm over Pakistan’s escalating diabetes rate during a seminar on World Diabetes Day held at Dow University of Health Sciences. Pakistan now ranks first worldwide in the increasing rate of diabetes patients, surpassing countries like Egypt and Kuwait. This alarming trend is marked by the fact that every fifth second, a death occurs globally due to diabetes.
According to Dow University of Health Sciences, it was revealed that the number of diabetes patients in Pakistan has soared to over 33 million. The diabetes rate among adults in the country is more than 26.7%, with a similarly high risk among the youth, largely attributed to obesity, unhealthy diets, lack of exercise, and economic stress. Leading health professionals, including Vice Chancellor Professor Muhammad Saeed Quraishy, NICVD’s Professor Saeed A. Mehar, and other notable figures, addressed the seminar, emphasizing the dire need for preventative measures and lifestyle changes.
Professor Muhammad Saeed Quraishy highlighted the urgency of addressing Pakistan’s diabetes epidemic, stressing the unhealthiness of current dietary habits and lifestyles, especially among the youth. Professor Saeed A. Mahar pointed out the heightened risk of heart attacks in diabetic patients and the importance of regular medical check-ups and dietary caution.
Brigadier (Retd) Shoaib Ahmed addressed the psychological aspects of diabetes, noting the prevalence of depression among patients and the importance of regular psychological evaluations. Dr. Nasir Sial recommended annual retina examinations for diabetic patients due to the high risk of eye-related complications.
Professor Zeba Haq and Professor Akhtar Ali Baloch stressed the need for greater public awareness, noting that half of the diabetic population in Pakistan is unaware of their condition. The National Institute of Diabetes and Endocrinology was mentioned for its role in providing free insulin and comprehensive care for diabetic patients.
The seminar concluded with Vice Chancellor Professor Muhammad Saeed Quraishy distributing shields to all participants, underscoring the collective effort required to combat this growing health crisis in Pakistan.