Diabetes Affects Over 35 Million People in Pakistan, Experts Warn

Health specialists urge early detection, healthier diets and regular physical activity to address the rising diabetes burden, particularly among children.

More than 35 million people in Pakistan are living with diabetes, while over 15 million remain unaware of their condition, health experts warned at a World Diabetes Day event in Karachi.

Specialists expressed concern over the rising number of diabetes cases, particularly among children. They linked the growing risk to unhealthy eating habits, excessive consumption of sugary products and fast food, and a lack of physical activity.

The experts shared their views during an awareness walk and seminar organised by the National Institute of Diabetes and Endocrinology (NIDE), Dow University of Health Sciences (DUHS), at its Ojha Campus on Saturday.

The event marked World Diabetes Day and aimed to promote early detection, prevention and better disease management.

NIDE Director Dr Musarrat Riaz led the awareness walk, which began outside the Trauma Centre and ended at the institute’s main entrance. Doctors, healthcare professionals and other participants carried banners and placards promoting balanced diets, diabetes control and healthy lifestyles.

Dr Tariq Farman, Dr Umar, Dr Jawad-us-Salam, Dr Nisar Ahmed Siyal and other healthcare professionals also participated.

During the seminar, specialists stressed the importance of early intervention to prevent diabetes and reduce complications among patients. They warned that the disease can damage multiple organs and increase the risk of other serious health conditions.

Dr Musarrat Riaz called for regular public awareness campaigns. She said diabetes should remain a subject of continuous discussion rather than receive attention only on special occasions. According to her, holding an awareness walk once a year is not enough to reach every household.

She also stressed the need to educate doctors and healthcare professionals across different medical fields. This would help them share accurate information with patients and communities. She urged the public to adopt healthier lifestyles and encouraged people living with diabetes to take proper care of their health.

Professor Syed Muhammad Hassan said this year’s World Diabetes Day theme was “Early Action on Diabetes”. He highlighted the importance of prevention before the disease develops and timely treatment to protect patients from complications.

Dr Jawad-us-Salam, Head of DUHS’s Department of Neurology, warned that diabetes could affect several parts of the body. He discussed diabetic neuropathy, which causes nerve damage, and highlighted the increased risk of stroke and heart attacks among people with diabetes.

Nutrition expert Dr Tehmina advised patients to choose whole-wheat flour containing bran instead of refined white flour. However, she clarified that people with diabetes did not need to completely avoid rice.

She said patients could include rice, fruits, salads and other foods in their diets while maintaining balanced meals and controlling portion sizes. She added that healthy eating habits could also help manage blood pressure and reduce the risk of other health problems.

Dr Zareen Kiran and other specialists also shared their views during the seminar. The event concluded with an interactive question-and-answer session, where participants discussed their concerns with healthcare professionals.

The experts emphasised that continuous awareness, healthier food choices, regular physical activity and timely medical care are essential to tackling Pakistan’s growing diabetes burden.