The seminar was organised by Prof Dr M Zaman Shaikh, Chair, National Diabetes Chapter, Pakistan Society of Internal Medicine (PSIM), and Sir Syed College of Medical Sciences, Karachi, in collaboration with the Express Media Group.
Professor Javed Akram was the chief guest while Professor Aftab Mohsin was the guest of honour. The event was sponsored by ICan, Atco Group, High-Q, Barrett Hodgson Pakistan Pvt Ltd, Scilife, Martin Dow, Getz Pharma, Highnoon Laboratories Limited and Servier. The theme of the seminar was ‘Diabetes and Wellbeing’. Participants from various walks of life attended the seminar.
Dr Somia Iqtadar served as the facilitator, while leading medical professionals spoke in detail on different aspects of diabetes, its complications and preventive measures, and guided participants on effective disease management.
Former federal health minister and former vice chancellor of the University of Health Sciences (UHS), Professor Dr Javed Akram, highlighted the alarming diabetes situation in Pakistan and expressed serious concern over rapidly increasing number of patients. He said, Pakistan is gaining negative global attention due to its failure to control the escalating diabetes cases.
“Pakistan has become a centre of diabetes and its prevalence is increasing at an alarming pace. The public should consider the sensitivity of this disease and I strongly advise the public to change their lifestyles. Diabetes is a controllable disease and if we act wisely and give importance to physical activity and exercise, it can be managed effectively. It is tragic that people are suffering heart attacks and paralysis at a young age due to diabetes. If people start exercising and adopt a healthy lifestyle, the risk of diabetes can be reduced by up to 45 per cent. Our body is a blessing from Almighty Allah, and we must value it. By changing our daily routine, eating natural foods, and avoiding fast food and cold drinks, we can protect ourselves not only from diabetes but also from cancer,” Dr Javed Akram said.
Dr M Zaman Shaikh described diabetes as a ‘silent killer’, explaining that in its early stages it often causes no pain and symptoms usually appear after several years, by which time serious damage may have already occurred. He emphasised the urgent need for widespread public education and awareness to safeguard future generations.
He stated that women suffering from diabetes must be particularly cautious during pregnancy to protect both themselves and their newborns as diabetes during pregnancy increases the risk of several diseases in infants. He also pointed out that obesity and impotence are treatable conditions but social taboos in eastern societies often discourage open discussion.
Dr Aftab Mohsin termed it tragic that nearly half of diabetes patients remain unaware of their condition due to the absence of early symptoms. He stressed the importance of simple screening tests, preventive measures, a healthy lifestyle, blood pressure control, regular exercise, stress management and adherence to a balanced diet.
Dr Somia Iqtadar said the diabetes situation in Pakistan has reached an extremely serious level, with number of patients is increasing at alarmingly faster pace.
Professor Dr Tariq Wasim emphasised strict dietary control and at least 30 minutes of daily exercise, warning that the growing trend of fast-food consumption is a major contributor to diabetes, particularly among the youth.
Dr Shehla Javed Akram highlighted the need to reduce carbohydrate intake, increase physical activity and effectively manage stress in order to lower the risk of diabetes.
Dr Nabeel Akbar warned that undetected diabetes can silently damage vital organs, particularly kidneys and heart. He stressed the importance of controlling cholesterol levels and blood pressure.
Professor Dr Gulshad Hassan advised regular screening, timely medical consultation, and strict adherence to prescribed treatment plans along with necessary lifestyle modifications.
Editor Express Forum, Ajmal Sattar Malak, stated that the Express Media Group remains committed to raising awareness on health and social issues. A large number of medical students attended the seminar, while pharmaceutical companies also set up informational stalls to guide and educate the public. Replying to questions, medical experts also guided the participants about precautions regarding the disease.