Renowned diabetologist Dr BM Rathor described the rising number of diabetic patients as a “ticking time bomb,” urging immediate measures to avert a national health crisis.
“The surge in diabetes cases can be attributed to multiple factors, including sedentary lifestyles, unhealthy dietary habits, and genetic predisposition,” Dr Rathor stated, adding that public awareness campaigns and proactive health policies are crucial to curbing the epidemic.
Experts emphasised the importance of lifestyle changes, routine screenings, and early treatment to mitigate the growing burden of diabetes on individuals and the healthcare system.
He stressed the importance of awareness and education in preventing and managing diabetes.
“We need to encourage people to adopt healthy lifestyles,” said Dr Rathor. “The government, healthcare providers and civil society must work together to combat this growing health crisis,” he added.
Dr Rathor shared that the prevalence of diabetes in Pakistan has been on a relentless upward trajectory over the past 30 years, with the number of patients ballooning at an alarming rate. Consuming high-carbohydrate foods such as wheat flour’s (chapatti) and rice can lead to a sudden surge in blood sugar levels, significantly increasing the risk of developing insulin resistance and diabetes, he warned.
To prevent diabetes, the health expert recommended maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet rich in whole foods, incorporating regular physical activity, staying hydrated, limiting sugary drinks and foods, choosing complex carbohydrates, getting enough sleep and managing stress through relaxation techniques like yoga and meditation.