Diabetes on the Rise: PES Finds 7.5 Million Diabetics and an Equal Number of Pre-diabetics in KP
Around 7.5 million people in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa have diabetes, and an equal number have prediabetes, a condition where blood sugar levels are elevated but not yet high enough to be diagnosed as type 2 diabetes, according to Pakistan Endocrine Society (PES) officials.
Dr. Ibrar Ahmed, President of PES, emphasized that type 2 diabetes is now affecting younger individuals aged 20 to 40 due to sedentary lifestyles, unhealthy diets, sugary drinks, and physical inactivity.
To address this growing health concern, the PES launched guidelines for the management of type 2 diabetes and cardiometabolic syndrome across 35 cities in Pakistan. The guidelines aim to provide uniformity in diabetes treatment, ensuring affordability and accessibility to care for those unable to afford expensive treatments and medications.
The PES advocates that diabetes can be treated with cost-effective medications and lifestyle modifications, and it plans to train doctors across Pakistan in line with the latest guidelines.
Renowned diabetologist Prof. AH Amir mentioned that the guidelines will help general practitioners, internal medicine physicians, and young doctors in providing effective diabetes treatment based on international standards.
While diabetes reversal through significant weight loss is challenging, lifestyle changes and medications can help control the condition and prevent complications. Education on lifestyle modifications, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and adherence to physician’s advice, is essential for managing diabetes effectively.
The PES conducted training sessions in various cities to equip healthcare professionals with the necessary knowledge for managing type 2 diabetes in patients.
