AKUH Experts Warn of Rising Diabetes Risks Among Young Adults, Urge Early Screening

With 34.5 million adults living with diabetes in Pakistan, specialists stress early detection, regular medical check-ups and integrated care to prevent serious complications.

Healthcare experts at Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH) have warned about the growing diabetes burden in Pakistan, highlighting the increasing risk among younger adults and the need for early screening, lifestyle changes and coordinated medical care.

Pakistan is among the countries most affected by diabetes, with an estimated 34.5 million adults living with the condition. However, around 9.3 million people, representing 26.9 per cent of those affected, remain undiagnosed. Without effective intervention, the number of adults with diabetes in the country could reach 70.2 million by 2050.

AKUH brought together specialists in endocrinology, vascular surgery and clinical nutrition at a media roundtable to discuss the rising health challenge and the importance of identifying risk factors at an early stage.

The experts explained that diabetes affects more than blood sugar levels. Over time, it can damage blood vessels and nerves, increasing the risk of serious complications involving the heart, kidneys, eyes and limbs.

Younger adults may also develop Type 2 diabetes, particularly those with a family history of the condition, excess abdominal weight or inactive lifestyles. Specialists cautioned that people with apparently healthy body weight should not assume they are free from diabetes risk.

Dr Asma Ahmed, Consultant Endocrinologist at AKUH, said younger people with a family history or other risk factors should consider screening rather than waiting for symptoms to appear. She also stressed the importance of taking prescribed medication, attending regular medical appointments and making sustainable lifestyle changes after diagnosis.

The benefits of early intervention were also highlighted through AKUH’s community-based Pakistan Diabetes Prevention Trial. After one year, 61 per cent of participants with prediabetes in the lifestyle intervention group returned to normal blood sugar levels through simple, culturally tailored lifestyle changes.

Dr Fareed Ahmed Shaikh, Assistant Professor and Section Head of Vascular Surgery at AKUH, highlighted the impact of diabetes on blood circulation and nerve function, particularly in the legs and feet. He warned that reduced sensation and poor circulation can cause minor cuts to develop into serious wounds, potentially leading to limb loss if left untreated. Regular foot checks and timely medical assessments can help identify problems before they become severe.

Nutrition was another key focus of the discussion. Farah Syed, Senior Dietitian at AKUH, said diabetes management does not require people to completely avoid their favourite foods or follow highly restrictive diets. Instead, she recommended balanced food choices, portion control, more vegetables, pulses and whole grains, and reduced consumption of sugary drinks.

The specialists emphasised that effective diabetes care requires a coordinated approach that goes beyond monitoring blood sugar. Medical treatment, regular vascular and foot assessments, and personalised nutritional guidance can help patients manage the condition and reduce the risk of complications.

Established as a not-for-profit healthcare institution, AKUH operates a network of healthcare facilities across 130 cities in Pakistan. Its services include a flagship hospital in Karachi, four off-campus hospitals, more than 50 pharmacies, 19 medical centres and over 300 laboratory collection points.

The institution also provides financial assistance to deserving patients. According to AKUH, it extended Rs8.68 billion in welfare and Zakat support to 1.57 million patients across Pakistan in 2025.