World Diabetes Day Faisalabad: Rising Diabetes Crisis

Staff Report

In a bid to raise awareness about the growing diabetes crisis, Faisalabad Medical University (FMU), in collaboration with the Pakistan Diabetes Foundation (PDF) and PSIM, has organized a World Diabetes walk on Friday.

The walk started from the Vice Chancellor’s office which was attended by a large number of faculty members, doctors, students and social representatives.

Participants carried banners and placards inscribed with slogans promoting diabetes prevention, awareness and precautionary measures.

The Vice Chancellor of the FMU, Professor Zafar Ali Chaudhry, Professor Dr. Amir Shaukat, Dr. Ahmed Shehzad, and Dr. Muhammad Irfan led the walk.

Alarming Statistics Spark Concern

Speaking on the occasion, Professor Chaudhry said that diabetes is the leading cause of amputations in the surgery department. He said that Allied and DHQ hospitals are providing free insulin to diabetes patients, which is a commendable step.

Professor Shaukat highlighted that the prevalence of diabetes among adults in Pakistan has reached 30 percent and it is one of the highest rates in the world. He described the situation as a national emergency.

Dr. Muhammad Irfan, head of the PSIM Faisalabad chapter, stated that diabetes is now a major cause of blindness.

Furthermore, he noted that more than half of diabetes patients develop kidney disease, while nearly 50 percent suffer from depression.

He emphasized that the disease also has serious physical and mental effects.”

Layallpur Diabetes Foundation Offers Hope

Dr. Ahmed Shehzad spoke about the efforts of the Layallpur Diabetes Foundation (LDF).

He said that LDF is soon launching a modern Diabetes Prevention and Free Treatment Center, which will be a good facility for the public.

Simple Lifestyle Changes Can Make a Difference

The participants, giving tips to prevent diabetes, urged people to walk briskly for at least 30 minutes daily, maintain a healthy weight, and avoid obesity, sugar, sweet drinks, bakery items, and junk food.

They also advised eating more fresh fruits, vegetables, pulses, and high-fiber foods, reducing stress, getting adequate sleep, and undergoing regular medical checkups.