Diabetes in Pakistan: A Silent Emergency

Type 2 diabetes, often referred to as “sugar” in Pakistan, has quietly become one of the country’s most serious health emergencies. Almost every family is touched by it, from parents and relatives to even young people. While it is often discussed casually, the consequences are far from trivial.

According to the World Health Organization, one in three Pakistanis is living with diabetes. Many discover the disease only after complications such as heart disease, kidney failure, vision loss, or nerve damage have already developed. This late diagnosis reflects not just individual neglect but systemic gaps in healthcare.

The financial burden is staggering. Diabetes costs Pakistan an estimated USD 8–9 billion annually—nearly equal to the national defense budget. This includes both direct medical expenses and indirect costs such as lost productivity.

At its core, type 2 diabetes occurs when the body either fails to produce enough insulin or becomes resistant to it. Insulin is the hormone that moves sugar from the blood into cells for energy. When this process breaks down, sugar builds up in the bloodstream, damaging vital organs over time.

A common misconception is that diabetes is caused only by eating sweets. In reality, everyday foods like naan, roti, rice, bread, and bakery items raise blood sugar levels just as much. Portion control and smarter choices—such as wholegrain bread, smaller rice servings, and more vegetables—can make a significant difference.

Genetics also play a role, with South Asians more prone to diabetes at younger ages and lower body weights. However, lifestyle factors such as diet, physical activity, smoking, sleep, and stress remain powerful influences. Even modest weight loss of 5–10% can improve blood sugar control.

Exercise is another critical tool. While walking helps, experts stress that cardio and strength training are far more effective in improving insulin sensitivity. Simple routines like stair climbing, resistance exercises, or short home workouts can deliver lasting benefits.

The danger lies in diabetes’ silent progression. It often causes damage before symptoms appear, leading to blindness, kidney failure, or heart disease. Early screening and consistent lifestyle changes are essential to prevent these outcomes.

Pakistan’s diabetes crisis cannot be solved with medication alone. It demands widespread public education, early detection, and community-level action. Sustainable lifestyle changes—balanced diets, regular exercise, and awareness—offer the best chance of remission and long-term health.

The lesson is clear: diabetes is not just a medical condition but a cultural and societal challenge. With collective effort, Pakistan can turn the tide against this growing health crisis.