World Diabetes Day was observed on Saturday to highlight growing threat posed by the disease and urgent need for effective measures to prevent and control it. The occasion served as a reminder that diabetes has become one of the most serious public health challenges facing Pakistan, with number of people affected by it continuing to rise at an alarming rate.
According to the International Diabetes Federation’s 2025 Diabetes Atlas, approximately 34.5m adults in Pakistan were living with diabetes in 2024, making country one of the most severely affected in the world. More worrying is the fact that a considerable number of patients remain unaware of their condition and are diagnosed only after developing complications. The number of people with diabetes in Pakistan is projected to reach 70.2m by 2050 if effective preventive measures are not taken. Early action is essential to prevent and manage the disease. Adopting a healthy lifestyle, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly and making sensible dietary choices can significantly reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. People with a family history of the disease should be particularly vigilant and undergo regular screening. However, tackling this growing health challenge cannot be left to individuals alone. While personal responsibility and lifestyle changes are important, government must also play a proactive role. There is a pressing need to introduce sustained public awareness campaigns and make diabetes screening an integral part of primary healthcare. Early detection must be prioritised, particularly in communities where access to medical facilities is limited. Regular screening programmes at public hospitals and basic health units can help identify people at risk and ensure timely intervention before serious complications develop. Diabetes is a lifelong condition, but its impact can be substantially reduced through prevention, timely diagnosis and proper management. This requires sustained efforts by government, healthcare institutions and individuals alike.
