Like other parts of the globe, World Diabetes Day will be observed across Pakistan, including Lahore, on Friday, November 14.
Experts will raise public awareness about the benefits of early diagnosis and proper management to avoid complications on the occasion.
Public and private sector will arrange seminars, workshops, walks and free screening camps to mark the day. World Diabetes Day serves as a reminder that a healthy lifestyle, a balanced diet and regular exercise act as the most effective tools to fight this disease.
Currently, 589 million people worldwide are living with diabetes. Experts fear this number might reach 853 million by 2045. Pakistan has one of the highest diabetes prevalence rates in the world, with about 31.4% of the adult population (34.5 million people) affected, many of whom remain undiagnosed.
Ameer-ud-Din Medical College Principal Prof Farooq Afzal delivered a lecture at the Lahore General Hospital on Wednesday. He emphasised that one could detect diabetes from a single drop of blood. He said delay in diagnosis or treatment can lead to serious complications.
Lifestyle Changes:
Preventing the disease requires immediate lifestyle changes, he stated. He pointed out that the growing consumption of fast food, sugary drinks, and poor dietary habits made major contribution to the spread of diabetes. Prof Amber calls for public awareness to control it.
Prof Farooq stated that diabetes not only a created medical issue but also acted as social and economic challenge. To address it effectively, healthcare professionals, educational institutions, the media, and the public must work together. Their efforts could promote awareness, early diagnosis, and healthy lifestyle choices.
Dr Faryad Hussain said that the rising rate of diabetes among children is alarming. Sedentary lifestyle, along with excessive use of mobile phones and television, has made the younger generation physically inactive. Parents must ensure a balanced diet and regular physical activities for their children, he emphasised.
Dr Maqsood stated that insulin remains the cornerstone of diabetes treatment. Its proper use helps patients prevent complications related to the heart, kidneys, vision, and nerves. He advised diabetic patients to regularly monitor their blood sugar levels, maintain a balanced diet, and include daily exercise in their routines.
Dr Laila Shafiq stated that women, especially during pregnancy, should regularly monitor their blood sugar and blood pressure, as gestational diabetes poses serious risks for both mother and child.
Dr Anum Batool said that parents should take early symptoms of diabetes in children, such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, weight loss, or fatigue, seriously and consult a doctor immediately to ensure timely diagnosis and treatment.
