Medical experts at Combined Military Hospital (CMH) Rawalpindi marked World Diabetes Day on November 14 with an awareness campaign addressing Pakistan’s growing diabetes crisis, where every fourth adult is affected by the condition.
Lieutenant General Arshad Naseem, Surgeon General, revealed that over 30 million Pakistanis currently live with diabetes. He emphasized that while the condition is not curable, it can be managed effectively through preventive measures, regular exercise, and medication when necessary.
During the awareness session, healthcare professionals identified poor dietary habits, obesity, genetic predisposition, and stress as primary contributing factors to the disease’s prevalence. Lt. Col. Shamaila Mohsin highlighted that 15 million Pakistani children suffer from obesity, a significant risk factor for developing diabetes later in life.
The Pakistan Army has implemented comprehensive diabetes screening and awareness programs across all military hospitals, aligning with the Chief of Army Staff’s vision for physical fitness. Lt. Gen. Naseem noted that this focus has resulted in minimal diabetes cases within the armed forces.
Dr. Sajeha and Dr. Farah Gardezi stressed that diabetes prevention begins at home through lifestyle modifications. They emphasized that the condition is manageable through proper diet and regular physical activity.
Military medical facilities nationwide have launched active awareness campaigns focusing on preventive measures, including balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and the importance of avoiding junk food.
