Experts stressed the need for immediate policy changes to combat obesity and diabetes, which are affecting millions in Pakistan. Health professionals, food safety officials and researchers participated in the dialogue, which was organised by the Centre for Governance and Public Accountability (CGPA), Health Services Academy and Islamabad Food Authority (IFA) with support from Nutrition International.
The event focused on how policy reforms can curb non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Experts highlighted that Pakistan faces a growing health crisis, with 60 per cent of deaths attributed to NCDs.
About 36 million people have been diagnosed with diabetes, and another 11 million are pre-diabetic. Obesity is also on the rise, affecting nearly 23 per cent of men and 40 per cent of women in urban areas. Around 16 per cent of children in Pakistan are overweight or obese, putting them at high risk for diseases like diabetes and cardiovascular issues later in life.
The experts warned that dietary habits and lifestyle changes are contributing to this surge. Industrially produced trans fatty acids (iTFAs), commonly found in processed foods, are a significant factor. These harmful fats are linked to heart disease, diabetes and other metabolic disorders.
Addressing the participants, Islamabad Food Authority (IFA) Deputy Director Operations Dr Tahira Saddique highlighted the authority’s efforts to tackle the issue. She noted, “We are committed to protecting residents from the harmful effects of unhealthy fats. Our goal is to reduce the prevalence of heart disease, obesity and diabetes, especially among adults aged 26 to 59.”
To raise awareness, the IFA is encouraging healthier eating habits by promoting fresh fruits, vegetables, lentils and other nutritious options over processed foods and sugary drinks, she added.
Dean of the Faculty of Public Health Sciences at the Health Services Academy, Dr Ramesh Kumar, called obesity and diabetes a growing epidemic. He pointed out that gender disparities in health are evident, as urban women face higher obesity rates than men.
“Diabetes is a gateway to severe complications such as kidney failure, heart attacks and foot ulcers, often leading to amputations,” he explained.