AKUH Experts Highlight Rising Diabetes Risks Among Young Adults, Urge Early Detection in Pakistan
KARACHI : Health experts at the Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH) have raised concerns over the growing diabetes burden in Pakistan, particularly among younger adults, urging people to recognise risk factors early, undergo timely screening and adopt healthier lifestyles to prevent serious complications.
Pakistan is among the countries most affected by diabetes, with an estimated 34.5 million adults living with the condition. According to the figures shared at the discussion, around 9.3 million people, or 26.9 per cent, remain undiagnosed. Without effective prevention and treatment measures, the number of adults with diabetes in the country could reach 70.2 million by 2050.
Diabetes Risks Increasing Among Younger Adults in Pakistan
AKUH brought together specialists in endocrinology, vascular surgery and clinical nutrition for a media roundtable to discuss the rising prevalence of diabetes and the importance of early intervention.
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Experts highlighted that diabetes is not limited to older adults. Younger people may also face an increased risk, particularly those with a family history of the condition, excess abdominal weight or sedentary lifestyles.
They also cautioned that having an apparently healthy body weight does not necessarily mean a person is free from diabetes risk.
Dr Asma Ahmed, Consultant Endocrinologist at AKUH, said people with risk factors should not wait for symptoms to appear before seeking medical screening.
She emphasised that patients diagnosed with type 2 diabetes should take prescribed medication regularly, attend follow-up appointments and make sustainable lifestyle changes to manage blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of complications.
AKUH Diabetes Prevention Trial Shows Benefits of Lifestyle Changes
Highlighting the importance of early intervention, AKUH shared findings from its community-based Pakistan Diabetes Prevention Trial.
After one year, 61 per cent of participants with prediabetes in the lifestyle intervention group had returned to normal blood sugar levels through simple, culturally tailored lifestyle changes.
The findings highlight how practical changes in daily routines and eating habits can help people with prediabetes reduce their risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Diabetes Can Cause Serious Nerve and Circulation Complications
Specialists also warned that uncontrolled diabetes can damage blood vessels and nerves, increasing the risk of complications affecting the heart, kidneys, eyes, legs and feet.
Dr Fareed Ahmed Shaikh, Assistant Professor and Section Head of Vascular Surgery at AKUH, said diabetes can affect blood circulation and nerve function, particularly in the lower limbs.
He explained that reduced sensation and poor circulation can cause minor cuts or injuries to go unnoticed, potentially developing into serious wounds and, in severe cases, leading to limb loss.
Dr Shaikh stressed the importance of regular foot examinations and timely medical assessments to identify problems before they become severe.
Balanced Nutrition Plays Key Role in Diabetes Prevention and Management
Alongside medical treatment, nutrition remains an important part of diabetes prevention and management.
Farah Syed, Senior Dietitian at AKUH, said managing diabetes does not require people to abandon their favourite foods or follow unnecessarily restrictive diets.
She recommended making balanced food choices, controlling portion sizes, eating more vegetables, pulses and whole grains, and reducing the consumption of sugary drinks.
She emphasised that sustainable dietary changes are more effective when they can be maintained as part of everyday life.
AKUH Experts Call for Integrated Diabetes Care
The specialists emphasised that effective diabetes management requires more than regular blood sugar monitoring.
They called for coordinated healthcare involving medical treatment, vascular and foot assessments, and personalised nutritional guidance to help patients manage the condition and prevent long-term complications.
Early diagnosis, regular medical follow-ups and sustainable lifestyle changes can play an important role in reducing diabetes-related health risks and improving patients’ quality of life.
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