{
  "id": 19647564,
  "title": "Pakistan to Have 7 Crore Diabetes Patients by 2050",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/12/pakistan-to-have-7-crore-diabetes-patients-by-2050",
  "topic": "health",
  "section": "Health & Medicine",
  "published": "2026-11-12T11:39:32.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "ProPakistani",
    "slug": "propakistani",
    "url": "https://propakistani.pk/2026/11/12/pakistan-to-have-7-crore-diabetes-patients-by-2050/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Pakistan could be home to 70.2 million adults with diabetes by 2050, unless decisive action is taken to curb the expanding diabetes epidemic. Currently, Pakistan boasts an estimated 34.5 million adults afflicted with the disease, of which 9.3 million, or 26.9 percent, remain undiagnosed. To address this growing burden, the Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH) hosted a media roundtable to discuss the escalating issue and the significance of early identification of risk factors. Renowned experts in endocrinology, vascular surgery, and clinical nutrition elucidated the importance of early screening, treatment, and adopting sustainable lifestyle modifications.\n\nDiabetes extends its reach beyond blood sugar levels, as it can damage blood vessels and nerves over time. This damage escalates the risk of complications in vital organs like the heart, kidneys, eyes, and limbs. Younger adults are not immune to these risks, particularly those with a family history of diabetes, excessive abdominal weight, or sedentary lifestyles. Surprisingly, an outwardly healthy body weight does not guarantee protection against diabetes risk. Dr. Asma Ahmed, a Consultant Endocrinologist at AKUH, stressed that type 2 diabetes is not confined to older adults and urged younger individuals with a family history or other risk factors to undergo screening before symptoms manifest.\n\nFor those already diagnosed with diabetes, Dr. Ahmed emphasized the importance of adhering to prescribed medication and attending regular follow-up appointments. Moreover, she highlighted the value of sustainable lifestyle changes to manage diabetes effectively and minimize complications. A community-based diabetes prevention trial conducted by AKUH demonstrated the efficacy of early intervention. After a year, 61 percent of participants with prediabetes in the lifestyle intervention group had returned to normal blood sugar levels through simple, culturally relevant lifestyle modifications.\n\nDr. Fareed Ahmed Shaikh, Assistant Professor and Section Head of Vascular Surgery at AKUH, shed light on diabetes' impact on circulation and nerve function, particularly in the legs and feet. Reduced sensation can allow minor cuts to go unnoticed, coupled with poor blood circulation, which may result in severe wounds that could potentially lead to limb loss if left untreated. Regular foot checks and timely medical assessments can aid in early detection of problems, thereby reducing the risk of severe complications.\n\nNutrition also plays a crucial role in preventing and managing diabetes. Farah Syed, a Senior Dietitian at AKUH, clarified that managing diabetes does not necessitate giving up favorite foods or following restrictive diets. Instead, she recommended making balanced food choices, controlling portion sizes, and incorporating more vegetables, pulses, and whole grains while reducing sugary drinks. She stressed that dietary changes should be practical enough for long-term adherence. Ultimately, coordinated care that encompasses medical treatment, vascular and foot assessments, and personalized nutritional guidance, beyond blood sugar monitoring, is essential for effective diabetes management, enabling patients to reduce complications and improve their overall quality of life.",
  "summary": "Pakistan could have 70.2 million adults living with diabetes by 2050 unless effective action slows the growing burden. Already among … Read More The post Pakistan to Have 7 Crore Diabetes Patients by 2050 appeared first on ProPakistani .",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}