KU moot warns of alarming diabetes surge in Pakistan 

KARACHI: The World Health Organization (WHO) says that low- and middle-income countries like Pakistan were bearing the brunt of the diabetes epidemic, where someone dies of diabetes-related complications every six seconds, adding that over 540 million people worldwide are currently living with diabetes, and the number expected to reach 643 million by 2030.  

These alarming statistics were the focus of a recent awareness seminar on the global diabetes crisis organized at the Chinese Teachers Memorial Auditorium by the Karachi University Medical Centre, in partnership with Discovering Diabetes, ahead of World Diabetes Day 2024.

The event featured a presentation from prominent diabetes expert Dr. Zahid Mian, who underscored the gravity of the crisis both globally and within Pakistan.

Dr. Mian regretted that Pakistan is home to around 33 million diabetes patients, although the real numbers could be even higher. “Millions in Pakistan suffer from diabetes-related complications such as foot ulcers, vision impairment, and kidney failure, with many requiring costly, ongoing dialysis,” he said.

An estimated 3 million Pakistanis suffer from diabetic foot ulcers, up to 20pc experience eye issues, and 28pc have kidney failure. Each dialysis session costs approximately Rs5,000, placing a considerable financial burden on families of the patients, most of them requiring three sessions per week.

KU Vice Chancellor Prof Dr. Khalid Mahmood Iraqi addressed the seminar, calling for urgent lifestyle changes and preventive action. “If these trends continue, Pakistan risks becoming the country with the highest number of diabetes cases. Our healthcare system is already under strain, and without disciplined management, the situation will escalate,” Dr. Iraqi warned.

He emphasised the responsibility of educational institutions like Karachi University in raising awareness and dispelling myths around diabetes, urging reliance on medical guidance over unverified home remedies.

Prof Dr. Shaista Tabassum, Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, blamed unhealthy lifestyles and limited awareness for escalating diabetes rates. “Many people remain undiagnosed and turn to self-medication instead of seeking proper care,” she said.

Prof Dr. Anila Amber Malik, Chairperson of the Department of Psychology, spoke on the psychological toll of diabetes, noting that it often presents as a mental health challenge with physical manifestations. “A change in mindset is key to transforming behaviours and preventing diabetes,” she emphasised.

KU Medical Officer Dr. Akmal Waheed concluded the seminar by stressing the need for a strategic, multifaceted approach to diabetes care. “Diabetes management is not merely a medical challenge; it’s an art,” he said, highlighting the urgency of action at all levels.

The seminar served as a platform for experts to address the widespread impact of diabetes and the need for swift intervention, disseminating crucial information to improve diabetes management and prevention.