In a ceremony organized for World Heart Day at Karachi University’s Chinese Teacher Memorial Auditorium, health experts highlighted the urgent need to address growing heart health issues in Pakistan. Executive Director of the National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Professor Dr. Tahir Saghir, emphasized the role of modern habits, particularly the excessive use of mobile phones, in exacerbating health problems.
“Late-night use of cell phones is one of the key reasons behind the rise in blood pressure among the masses,” Dr. Saghir noted, citing that younger people, even in their 20s and 30s, are now encountering heart-related illnesses, a stark contrast to past decades when such conditions were rare among those under 40. He described mobile phone overuse as a “new pandemic” in the country. Dr. Saghir also pointed out the sedentary lifestyle that many have adopted, stressing the importance of regular physical activity.
He suggested that Karachi University (KU) should implement a vehicle-free day on campus, encouraging students, staff, and visitors to walk more. “We should all make walking a mandatory part of our day. Park at a distance, and use stairs instead of elevators,” he recommended. KU Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Khalid Iraqi echoed this sentiment, urging people to move away from fast food consumption.
He warned that children, influenced by the fast-food culture from an early age, are developing heart and other chronic diseases long before adulthood.
“A simple lifestyle is the best way to prevent heart disease,” he said, urging families to promote healthier eating habits from childhood. Dr. Iraqi also touched upon the importance of preventive health measures, stressing that people should not avoid medical tests due to fear of diagnosis. He called for a shift in mindset, encouraging individuals to prioritize their health by adopting natural routines.
“We need to change our lifestyle and focus on our well-being. Going to bed early, waking up early, and staying close to nature should be part of our routine.” Further highlighting the health crisis, Professor Dr. Rehan Umar, Head of the Cardiology Department at Patel Hospital, stated that one in four people in Pakistan suffers from high blood pressure, a condition aggravated by unhealthy living. Dr. Umar also warned about the dangers of smoking, stating, “Smoking is more harmful than many drugs, including heroin.
A chain smoker who dies of a sudden heart attack may be considered fortunate, as they avoid the prolonged suffering caused by diseases like lung or stomach cancer.” Dr. Umar also criticized fast food, calling it “fat food,” as its rapid rise in popularity is contributing to the deteriorating health of the population.
