Pakistan is considered one of the global epicenters of diabetes as the disease continues to increase at an alarming rate across the country.
The country ranks third in the world in terms of the highest number of patients with diabetes. It is urgent for the population to change their lifestyle to counteract this growing health crisis, speakers stressed at a seminar.
The seminar was organized by Prof. Dr. M. Zaman Shaikh, President, National Diabetes Chapter of Pakistan Society of Internal Medicine (PSIM) and Sir Syed College of Medical Sciences, Karachi, in collaboration with Express Media Group.
Professor Javed Akram was the chief guest while Professor Aftab Mohsin was the guest of honour. 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 topic of the seminar was ‘Diabetes and Wellbeing’. The seminar was attended by participants from various walks of life.
Dr. Somia Iqtadar acted as a facilitator, while leading medical 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), Professor Dr Javed Akram, highlighted the alarming situation of diabetes in Pakistan and expressed serious concern over the rapid increase in the number of patients. He said Pakistan is gaining negative global attention due to its inability to control rising cases of diabetes.
“Pakistan has become a hub of diabetes and its prevalence is increasing at an alarming rate. The public must consider the sensitivity of this disease and I strongly recommend the public 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 controlled effectively. It is tragic that people suffer from heart attacks and paralysis at a young age due to diabetes. If people start exercising and adopt a lifestyle healthy, the risk of diabetes can be reduced by up to 45 percent. “The body is a blessing from Allah Almighty and we should value it by changing our daily routine, eating natural foods and avoiding fast food 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 is often painless and symptoms usually appear after several years, by which time serious damage may have already been done. He highlighted the urgent need for widespread public education and awareness to safeguard future generations.
She stated that women suffering from diabetes should take special care during pregnancy to protect themselves and their newborns, as diabetes during pregnancy increases the risk of several diseases in babies. He also noted that obesity and impotence are treatable diseases, but social taboos in Eastern societies often discourage open debate.
Dr Aftab Mohsin termed it tragic that almost half of diabetes patients remain unaware of their disease due to the absence of early symptoms. He highlighted the importance of simple screening tests, preventive measures, a healthy lifestyle, blood pressure control, regular exercise, stress management and adherence to a balanced diet.
Dr Somia Iqtadar said that the diabetes situation in Pakistan has reached an extremely serious level and the number of patients is increasing at an alarmingly faster 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, especially among young people.
Dr Shehla Javed Akram highlighted the need to reduce carbohydrate intake, increase physical activity and effectively manage stress to reduce the risk of diabetes.
Dr Nabeel Akbar warned that undetected diabetes can silently damage vital organs, particularly the kidneys and heart. He highlighted the importance of controlling cholesterol levels and blood pressure.
Professor Dr Gulshad Hassan recommended regular check-ups, timely medical consultations and strict adherence to prescribed treatment plans along with necessary lifestyle modifications.
Express Forum Editor Ajmal Sattar Malak said Express Media Group remains committed to raising awareness on social and health 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 the questions, the medical experts also guided the participants about the precautions regarding the disease.
