Diabetes is a global health crisis, and Pakistan is on the front lines. On November 14th, in honor of World Diabetes Day, Khyber Medical University (KMU) in Peshawar, alongside KMU Hospital, took a significant step to combat this rising threat. They launched the KMU Diabetes Society, a dedicated initiative focused on raising awareness, preventing the disease, and fostering critical research. But here's where it gets controversial: the numbers are staggering.
Professor Dr. Zia Ul Haq, the Vice Chancellor of KMU, highlighted the alarming rise of diabetes in Pakistan. International reports now place Pakistan as the third most affected country globally, following only China and India. The International Diabetes Federation (IDF) estimates that a staggering 34.5 million adults between the ages of 20 and 79 in Pakistan are currently living with diabetes. The KMU Diabetes Society aims to empower the youth and support community efforts to lessen the impact of this disease.
Professor Dr. Wazir Muhammad, Managing Director of KMU Hospital, presented updated national data, emphasizing that a considerable portion of Pakistan's population is affected, with many cases going undiagnosed, leading to severe complications. He stressed the importance of adopting healthy lifestyle changes, getting regular screenings, and managing risk factors.
Professor Dr. Sobia Sabir Ali, a leading diabetologist, provided crucial insights into the causes, symptoms, and complications of diabetes, as well as the current treatment options available. She emphasized that lifestyle modifications, including a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and weight control, are key to preventing the onset of diabetes.
Dr. Tariq from the Peshawar Institute of Cardiology shed light on the strong link between diabetes and heart disease, noting that diabetes is a major risk factor for cardiovascular complications. He underscored the importance of consistent monitoring and coordinated medical management.
Let's look at the global picture: In 2021, there were 537 million people worldwide with diabetes. The IDF projects this number to soar to 643 million by 2030 and a shocking 783 million by 2045. In Pakistan, the situation is particularly concerning. Currently, 34.5 million adults approximately 33% of the adult population are living with diabetes. Projections indicate this number could reach 62 million by 2045 if no action is taken.
The speakers identified the main causes of diabetes, including low physical activity, unhealthy diets, obesity, genetic factors, and the modern urban lifestyle. They pointed out that symptoms often go unnoticed in the early stages, making regular screening essential. Early diagnosis, blood glucose monitoring, medication, and lifestyle changes are central to effective diabetes management. A balanced diet, exercise, weight control, quitting smoking, and monitoring blood pressure and cholesterol can significantly reduce risks. And this is the part most people miss: The event concluded with an awareness walk and a briefing on upcoming activities of the KMU Diabetes Society, including community screening camps, awareness seminars, and research initiatives.
Faculty members, students, doctors, nurses, and paramedics attended the event in large numbers, showing a united front in the fight against diabetes.
What do you think? Are you surprised by these statistics? Do you believe enough is being done to address the diabetes crisis? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
