6-7m diabetic patients go undiagnosed in K-P

An estimated 6 to 7 million people in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are affected by diabetes with an equivalent number of individuals displaying symptoms but remaining undiagnosed.

The alarming figures were shared during a one-day master training session on Monday aimed at enhancing doctors' capabilities in managing diabetes

The training, organised by the health department of the province as part of the extension of the D-TALK and Insulin for Life project, took place on Monday in Peshawar. The event was attended by Director Curative DGHS-KP Dr Saeeda and Deputy Director Dr Abbass Khan as special guests.

During the training, Prof Dr A.H. Aamir, head of the department of diabetes and endocrinology at Hayatabad Medical Complex, highlighted the prevalence of diabetes in the country where 16 to 20 per cent of the population was affected.

He emphasised that many diabetic patients face serious complications, such as kidney failure, vision problems, and chronic pain.

D Aamir, who is also the director of the extension of D-TALK and Insulin for Life project in K-P, stated that the primary goal of this training is to equip doctors in remote districts with the necessary skills to provide comprehensive care to diabetic patients within their respective district hospitals, reducing the need for them to travel to Peshawar for treatment.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 22^nd, 2023.