LAHORE: Pakistan is facing a serious public health challenge as the number of people living with diabetes has reportedly reached approximately 35 million. Health experts have expressed concern over the growing prevalence of the disease, particularly among children and young adults.
According to a report citing the World Health Organization (WHO), around 35 million people in Pakistan are living with diabetes, placing the country among those facing a particularly high burden of the disease.
The report also claims that Pakistan ranks first globally in diabetes prevalence. However, this ranking should not be confused with the total number of patients, and the latest internationally comparable figures would be needed to verify the exact position.
Medical experts believe the actual number of people affected could be even higher because many individuals have never undergone blood sugar testing and may be unaware that they have the condition.
Health professionals have identified unhealthy eating habits, excessive consumption of sugary drinks, obesity, and a lack of physical activity as major factors contributing to the rise in type 2 diabetes.
Diabetes specialist Dr. Fahad Jan Mian expressed concern that the disease is increasingly affecting younger people in Pakistan.
He explained that many children and teenagers now prefer fast food, soft drinks, bakery products, and restaurant meals over home-cooked food.
At the same time, physical activities such as outdoor games, walking, and regular exercise have become less common among young people.
According to health experts, these lifestyle changes are increasing the risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes at an early age.
Doctors have warned that diabetes can lead to serious health complications if blood sugar levels remain uncontrolled for a long period.
The disease can affect several vital organs, increasing the risk of vision problems, kidney disease, heart complications, and nerve damage. In severe cases, poor circulation and nerve damage can also lead to serious foot problems.
Diabetes specialist Dr. Saira Bashir said that the disease affects both men and women and can cause complications throughout the body.
She emphasized that people diagnosed with diabetes should regularly monitor their blood sugar levels, follow medical advice, and seek timely treatment.
According to Dr. Bashir, early diagnosis and proper disease management are essential to reducing the risk of long-term complications.
Medical professionals explain that diabetes is generally classified into two main types.
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition in which the body produces little or no insulin. It is not caused by unhealthy eating habits, although genetic and other factors may influence the risk.
Type 2 diabetes is more common and is associated with several factors, including family history, excess body weight, unhealthy dietary patterns, and physical inactivity.
The growing number of diabetes patients is also placing additional pressure on Pakistan’s healthcare system, with hospitals and medical facilities dealing with an increasing demand for treatment and long-term care.
The government has reportedly claimed that urgent measures are being taken to control the spread of diabetes and improve public awareness.
However, healthcare professionals believe that prevention, early screening, and lifestyle changes must remain central to efforts to address the disease.
Doctors recommend reducing sugary beverages, maintaining a balanced diet, staying physically active, managing body weight, and undergoing appropriate blood sugar screening.
They also advise people with a family history of diabetes or other risk factors to consult healthcare professionals about regular testing.
Experts stress that many cases of type 2 diabetes can be prevented or delayed through healthier lifestyle choices.
For people already living with diabetes, timely medical care, appropriate medication, and consistent blood sugar management can help prevent complications and support a healthy, active life.
As diabetes continues to affect millions of Pakistanis, health specialists are calling for greater public awareness and stronger preventive healthcare measures to address the country’s growing health challenge.