KARACHI: Pakistan is among the countries most affected by diabetes, with an estimated 34.5 million adults living with the condition, while 9.3 million, or 26.9 per cent, remain undiagnosed. The number of adults with diabetes in the country is projected to reach 70.2 million by 2050 if effective measures are not taken to address the growing burden.
The Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH) brought together specialists in endocrinology, vascular surgery and clinical nutrition at a media roundtable to highlight the rising diabetes burden and the importance of early detection, prevention and integrated care.
Experts said diabetes affects more than blood sugar levels, as it can progressively damage blood vessels and nerves, increasing the risk of complications involving the heart, kidneys, eyes and limbs.
They warned that younger adults are also at risk, particularly those with a family history of diabetes, excess abdominal weight and sedentary lifestyles. Even individuals with apparently healthy body weight should not consider themselves free from the risk.
Dr Asma Ahmed, Consultant Endocrinologist at AKUH, said Type 2 diabetes was not limited to older adults and urged younger people with risk factors to undergo screening rather than wait for symptoms. She stressed the importance of prescribed medication, regular follow-ups and sustainable lifestyle changes for managing the condition and preventing complications.
Highlighting the benefits of early intervention, AKUH cited its community-based Pakistan Diabetes Prevention Trial, in which 61 per cent of participants with prediabetes in the lifestyle intervention group returned to normal blood sugar levels after one year through simple, culturally tailored lifestyle changes.
Dr Fareed Ahmed Shaikh, Assistant Professor and Section Head of Vascular Surgery at AKUH, said diabetes could affect blood circulation and nerve function, particularly in the legs and feet. He warned that even minor cuts could develop into serious wounds when reduced sensation and poor circulation prevent patients from identifying injuries in time.
He emphasised that regular foot examinations and timely medical assessments could help prevent severe complications, including limb loss.
Farah Syed, Senior Dietitian at AKUH, said balanced nutrition was essential for preventing and managing diabetes. She advised patients to adopt practical dietary changes, including controlling portion sizes, increasing the intake of vegetables, pulses and whole grains, and reducing sugary drinks.
The specialists emphasised that effective diabetes management requires more than monitoring blood sugar levels. They said coordinated care involving medical treatment, vascular and foot assessments, and personalised nutritional guidance could help reduce complications and improve patients' quality of life.
