Pakistan is considered one of the global epicenters of diabetes, as the disease continues to grow alarmingly across the country.
The country ranks third in the world for the highest number of diabetic patients. It is urgent for the population to change their way of life in order to cope with this growing health crisis, speakers stressed at a seminar.
The seminar was organized by Prof. M Zaman Shaikh, President, National Diabetes Chapter, Pakistan Society of Internal Medicine (PSIM) and Sir Syed College of Medical Sciences, Karachi, in collaboration with Express Media Group.
Prof. Javed Akram was the chief guest while Prof. Aftab Mohsin was the guest of honor. The event was sponsored by ICan, Atco Group, High-Q, Barrett Hodgson Pakistan Pvt Ltd, Scilife, Martin Dow, Getz Pharma, Highnoon Laboratories Limited and Servier. The theme of the seminar was “Diabetes and well-being”. Participants from various backgrounds attended the seminar.
Dr Somia Iqtadar played the role of moderator, while eminent healthcare professionals spoke in detail about different aspects of diabetes, its complications and preventive measures, and guided the participants on effective management of the disease.
Former Federal Health Minister and former Vice-Chancellor of University of Health Sciences (UHS), Prof. Dr. Javed Akram, highlighted the alarming situation of diabetes in Pakistan and expressed deep concern over the rapid increase in the number of patients. He added that Pakistan is attracting negative global attention due to its inability to control the rising cases of diabetes.
“Pakistan has become a hotbed of diabetes and its prevalence is increasing at an alarming rate. The public should take note of the susceptibility of this disease and I strongly advise them to change their lifestyle. Diabetes is a controllable disease and if we act wisely and give importance to physical activity and exercise, it can be managed effectively. It is tragic that people suffer from heart attacks and paralysis at a young age due to diabetes. If people start doing diabetes exercise and adopt a healthy lifestyle, the risk of diabetes can be reduced by up to 45%. Our body is a blessing from Allah Almighty, and we should value it By changing our daily routine, eating natural foods and avoiding fast foods and cold drinks, we can protect ourselves not only from diabetes but also from cancer,” said Dr. Javed Akram.
Dr M Zaman Shaikh described diabetes as a “silent killer”, explaining that in its early stages it often causes no pain and symptoms usually appear after several years, after which serious damage can already occur. He stressed the urgent need for widespread public education and awareness to protect future generations.
He said women suffering from diabetes should be especially careful during pregnancy to protect themselves and their newborns, as diabetes during pregnancy increases the risk of several diseases in infants. He also pointed out that obesity and impotence are treatable illnesses, but social taboos in Eastern societies often discourage open discussion.
Dr Aftab Mohsin called it tragic that almost half of diabetic patients are unaware of their condition due to lack of early symptoms. He stressed the importance of simple screening tests, preventive measures, healthy lifestyle, blood pressure control, regular exercise, stress management and following a balanced diet.
Dr Somia Iqtadar said that the diabetes situation in Pakistan has reached an extremely serious level with the number of patients increasing at an alarming rate.
Professor Dr Tariq Wasim emphasized strict dietary control and at least 30 minutes of daily exercise, warning that the growing trend of fast food consumption is a major contributor to diabetes, particularly among young people.
Dr Shehla Javed Akram highlighted the need to reduce carbohydrate intake, increase physical activity and manage stress effectively to reduce the risk of diabetes.
Dr Nabeel Akbar warned that undetected diabetes can silently damage vital organs, particularly the kidneys and heart. He stressed the importance of controlling cholesterol levels and blood pressure.
Prof Dr Gulshad Hassan advised regular screening, timely medical consultation and strict adherence to prescribed treatment plans along with necessary lifestyle modifications.
Express Forum Editor-in-Chief Ajmal Sattar Malak said Express Media Group remains committed to raising awareness about health and social issues.
A large number of medical students attended the seminar, while pharmaceutical companies also set up information booths to guide and educate the public. Answering questions, medical experts also guided the participants on precautions to take against the disease.
