ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari has called for a nationwide drive to prevent diabetes, promote healthy lifestyles and ensure early diagnosis, urging all segments of society to join efforts to reduce the growing burden of the disease in Pakistan.
In his message on the occasion of World Diabetes Day, observed on November 14, the President said prevention, healthy living and timely diagnosis must be made national priorities. Referring to this year’s theme, “Early Action on Diabetes,” he stressed that timely intervention could save lives and prevent serious health complications.
Citing the latest estimates of the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), President Zardari said approximately 34.5 million adults in Pakistan were living with diabetes in 2024, with more than one-quarter unaware of their condition. He described the figures as a matter of serious concern, underscoring the need for sustained and coordinated efforts to safeguard public health.
The President emphasised that many cases of Type 2 diabetes could be prevented or delayed through healthier lifestyle choices, including a balanced diet, regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding tobacco use.
He urged citizens to cut down on sugary drinks, limit foods containing excessive sugar and unhealthy fats, and incorporate walking, exercise and sports into their daily routines. He also highlighted the important role of families and educational institutions in promoting healthy habits among children from an early age.
Calling for greater public awareness, President Zardari urged federal and provincial governments, healthcare professionals, educational institutions, media organisations and civil society to launch coordinated awareness campaigns in Urdu and regional languages.
He said such initiatives should provide accessible and practical information about diabetes prevention, early warning signs, risk factors and the importance of timely screening and medical consultation.
The President stressed that awareness and preventive measures must reach every part of the country, including Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, Islamabad Capital Territory, Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
He called for particular attention to women, older people, low-income households and communities living in rural and remote areas. He noted that Lady Health Workers, Basic Health Units and community-based organisations could play a vital role in taking reliable health information and screening services closer to people’s homes.
Highlighting the silent nature of the disease, President Zardari observed that diabetes could develop without noticeable symptoms. He therefore urged people to seek professional medical advice regarding their individual risk factors and appropriate diagnostic tests.
He further emphasised that early diagnosis must be accompanied by affordable treatment, accessible healthcare facilities and consistent follow-up care to prevent complications and improve patients’ quality of life.
The President also underscored the importance of supportive public policies in creating healthier communities. He called for measures to promote nutritious and affordable food, healthier meals in schools, safe drinking water and accessible spaces for walking, exercise and recreational activities, particularly for women and children.
Concluding his message, President Zardari called upon the nation to translate awareness into practical, everyday action, stressing that investment in prevention and the promotion of healthier choices were essential to reducing the diabetes burden and building a healthier Pakistan.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026
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