ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have urged collective action to prevent and control diabetes through early screening, timely diagnosis and healthy lifestyles.
In separate messages on World Diabetes Day, observed today under the theme Early Action on Diabetes, both leaders stressed the need for prompt intervention to prevent complications.
Citing International Diabetes Federation estimates, the President said 34.5 million Pakistani adults had diabetes in 2024, with more than a quarter undiagnosed. He urged citizens to reduce sugar intake, exercise regularly and undergo screening, while calling for coordinated awareness campaigns, particularly in rural and remote areas.
The Prime Minister described diabetes as a serious public health concern and said the federal government has allocated Rs6.8 billion for the Prime Minister’s Programme for Prevention and Control of Diabetes Mellitus. The programme will expand screening, strengthen primary healthcare and improve access to diagnosis and treatment.
He urged citizens to adopt balanced diets, regular exercise and routine medical check-ups.
