KARACHI: President of the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), Prof. Peter Schwarz of Germany, has expressed serious concern over the alarming prevalence of diabetes in Pakistan, highlighting that more than 34.5 million people are living with the disease, making it one of the country's most pressing public health challenges.
He expressed these concerns during his recent visit to the International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences (ICCBS), University of Karachi, where he met the center's Director, Prof. Dr. Muhammad Raza Shah, and discussed the growing burden of diabetes and the importance of scientific research in addressing the disease.
Prof. Schwarz was accompanied by renowned diabetologist Prof. Dr. Abdul Basit, Director of the Indus Diabetes and Endocrine Center at Indus Hospital. The visiting delegation was welcomed by Prof. Raza Shah, who briefed the guests on the institution's research capabilities and scientific achievements.
During the meeting, the IDF president highlighted Pakistan's exceptionally high diabetes prevalence, describing the situation as a major healthcare challenge requiring urgent attention from policymakers, healthcare professionals and research institutions.
According to figures cited during the visit, Pakistan has more than 34.5 million active diabetes cases and the world's highest diabetes prevalence, underscoring the urgent need for prevention, early diagnosis, effective treatment and public awareness.
Prof. Schwarz explained that the International Diabetes Federation serves as the global voice of the diabetes community. The nonprofit umbrella organization comprises 264 national diabetes associations across 163 countries and territories and works to improve the lives of an estimated 590 million people living with diabetes worldwide while promoting preventive measures among populations at risk.
He appreciated the opportunity to visit ICCBS and praised the advanced scientific infrastructure and state-of-the-art research facilities available at the institution.
Speaking on the occasion, ICCBS Director Prof. Dr. Muhammad Raza Shah emphasized the urgent need for coordinated national advocacy, effective policy interventions and collective action to combat the rapidly growing diabetes epidemic in Pakistan.
He stressed that addressing the disease required sustained efforts involving government institutions, healthcare organizations, scientific researchers and other stakeholders.
Prof. Raza Shah also briefed the IDF president on the extensive scientific and research activities being undertaken at ICCBS, highlighting the center's contributions to molecular medicine, drug discovery and forensic science.
He provided an overview of the institution's establishment, development and achievements, explaining how ICCBS has emerged as a leading center for scientific research and innovation in Pakistan.
The visit provided an opportunity for discussions on Pakistan's growing diabetes burden and the role of scientific research, healthcare advocacy and institutional cooperation in addressing one of the country's most significant public health challenges.
