The Chief Operating Officer of The Diabetes Centre, Dr Sajid Mahmood Ashraf, has raised alarm over the growing number of diabetes cases in Pakistan, urging immediate attention to the worsening health crisis.
Citing data from the International Diabetes Federation, Dr Ashraf revealed that approximately 33 million people in Pakistan are affected by diabetes. Globally, the number of diabetes patients has reached 537 million, accounting for 10.5% of the world's population. In Pakistan, however, the prevalence is even higher, with 26.7% of the population suffering from the condition.
Dr Asjad Hameed, Chairman of The Diabetes Centre, highlighted the crucial role of diabetes centres in raising awareness and fostering a supportive environment for patients. He emphasised the need for campaigns and comprehensive treatment protocols to address the growing epidemic. Dr Hameed also pointed out the global toll of diabetes, with 1.5 million deaths annually due to complications related to the disease.
In Pakistan, the diabetes rate stands at a staggering 5.35%, the highest in the world. Dr Hameed added that globally, one in every 200,000 children is diagnosed with diabetes.
Dr Ahsan Nisar, Medical Superintendent of The Diabetes Centre, spoke on the preventable nature of the disease. He stressed that adopting a healthy lifestylethrough proper diet, regular exercise, and weight managementcould significantly reduce the risk of developing diabetes and its complications.
Azhar Jatoi, President of the National Press Club Islamabad, also emphasised the vital role of the media in spreading awareness about the symptoms, prevention, and treatment of diabetes.
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