ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday called for early screening, timely diagnosis and improved access to treatment to address the country’s growing diabetes burden, highlighting Rs6.8 billion federal allocation for a programme aimed at preventing and controlling the disease.
In his message on World Diabetes Day, being observed today (Saturday), the Prime Minister said diabetes had emerged as a major public health challenge in Pakistan, requiring concerted efforts to prevent its spread and reduce complications.
This year’s theme, “Early Action on Diabetes”, underscores the importance of timely screening and medical intervention in preventing complications and saving lives.
Sharif said the Prime Minister’s Programme for Prevention and Control of Diabetes Mellitus had been developed as a comprehensive response to the challenge.
Under the programme, the federal government has allocated Rs6.8billion to strengthen and expand diabetes prevention and control measures.
The initiative aims to widen screening coverage for early detection, improve primary healthcare services and enhance access to diagnosis and treatment.
It also focuses on promoting healthy lifestyles, raising public awareness and improving coordination between federal and provincial governments to ensure effective implementation.
Urging people to adopt preventive measures, the prime minister stressed the importance of regular exercise, balanced diets, routine medical check-ups and timely consultations with qualified healthcare professionals.
He said curbing diabetes required sustained investment in healthcare, effective policies, greater public awareness and collective responsibility.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026