Obesity Emerges as Pakistan’s Silent Health Crisis

The Second International Obesity Conference 2026, held at Latif Hall, Peoples University of Medical & Health Sciences (PUMHS) in Nawabshah, has sounded the alarm on obesity as one of Pakistan’s most pressing public health challenges. Organized by Professor Dr. Sadiq Memon of the Asian Institute of Medical Sciences, Hyderabad, the event brought together physicians, surgeons, endocrinologists, nutritionists, researchers, and medical students from across Pakistan and abroad.

Experts emphasized that obesity is no longer just a matter of appearance or body shape. It has become a root cause of serious illnesses including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, stroke, and infertility. The growing prevalence of obesity is placing an enormous burden on Pakistan’s healthcare system, with delayed diagnosis and inadequate treatment worsening the crisis.

The conference featured scientific sessions on advanced treatment options such as bariatric surgery, pharmacological therapies, hormonal management, nutritional strategies, and lifestyle modification. Speakers highlighted that obesity can largely be prevented through a balanced diet, regular exercise, and healthier lifestyle choices.

In Pakistan, however, unhealthy eating habits, rising fast-food consumption, lack of physical activity, and limited public awareness are fueling the epidemic. Experts urged the government, medical institutions, and educational organizations to collaborate on nationwide awareness campaigns to educate communities about the risks of obesity and the importance of preventive care.

Participants also stressed the importance of international collaboration and research sharing. Conferences like this, they noted, play a vital role in strengthening professional networks, improving patient care, and ensuring that modern medical knowledge reaches practitioners across the country.

The International Obesity Conference 2026 has made it clear: Pakistan must act decisively to combat obesity. Without urgent reforms in diet, lifestyle, and healthcare delivery, the nation risks facing an escalating health crisis that could undermine its future well-being.