ISLAMABAD: NOV 14 (DNA):Today, on World Diabetes Day 2024, the Government of Pakistan achieves another milestone by inaugurating a dedicated Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) Centre in Barri Imam by Dr. Malik Mukhtar Ahmed Bharath, Coordinator to the Prime Minister on Health.
Dr. Malik Mukhtar Ahmad Bharath, on the occasion remarked “Diabetes is a major public health concern in Pakistan, and tackling it requires a united approach from all sectors. Approximately 33 million individuals in Pakistan live with diabetes, with an alarmingly 27% more, still undiagnosed. In 2021, diabetes resulted in 396,625 deaths.
Pakistan remains committed to global efforts for Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and advancing towards the World Health Organization’s (WHO) diabetes care targets for 2030. As the prevalence of diabetes rises in Pakistan, the Ministry, under the guidance of Prime Minister Mian Shehbaz Sharif, continues to make non-communicable diseases (NCDs) a national priority.
Hence, the Ministry has taken strategic steps to expand access to diabetes screening, treatment, and health education across the country. Today, on World Diabetes Day, the Ministry is proud to inaugurate a dedicated NCD clinic aimed at combating these diseases from an early stage. This initiative is part of our ongoing efforts to proactively address the growing burden of Non-Communicable Diseases and ensure that early intervention becomes a key component of our health strategy.
This is the first of its kind NCD Centre, that will be followed by 5 more centers on same pattern in Islamabad. The Coordinator further added that the Government of Pakistan in the light of this year’s WDD theme, “Breaking Barriers and Bridging Gaps: Uniting to Strengthen Diabetes & Well-being” is fully focused on overcoming obstacles in diabetes prevention and treatment.
We are increasing resources for public health education, ensuring that individuals at risk for diabetes receive timely screenings, and supporting ongoing treatment for those affected. We are also working on public-private partnerships and community health initiatives that address the root causes of diabetes, including unhealthy lifestyles and limited access to healthcare services. With targeted policies and robust infrastructure development, we aim to bridge the gaps that hinder diabetes prevention and effective care, particularly in underserved areas”.
The Ministry is dedicated to enhancing preventive and management strategies for diabetes. On this World Diabetes Day, we urge all citizens, healthcare providers, and policymakers to work together to break the barriers that limit access to effective diabetes care and bridge the gaps to ensure every individual can achieve optimal health. Today, Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations & Coordination (NHSRC) reaffirms its commitment to enhancing the health and well-being of Pakistan’s population through targeted efforts to prevent and manage diabetes. Mr. Nadeem Mahbub, Federal Secretary Health, underscored the importance of collective action, stating:
“Today, on World Diabetes Day, Pakistan is embracing hope and the power of change. I am pleased to address the significant theme, “Breaking Barriers and Bridging Gaps: Diabetes Well-being.” Diabetes is not only a chronic health condition; it’s a critical challenge for individuals, families, and communities across Pakistan. It affects millions of lives, bringing with it a heavy burden on our healthcare system and impacting the overall well-being of our nation.
The prevalence of diabetes in Pakistan is among the highest globally, and it’s imperative that we recognize and address the systemic gaps in care and prevention to protect our people. The Ministry of National Health Services & Regulations is committed to advancing diabetes care and ensuring that all Pakistanis have access to the necessary resources, education, and support. This year, we are intensifying our efforts to remove barriers to diabetes care, especially for underserved populations who may struggle to access the resources needed to manage their health.
The GoP is putting a special emphasis on awareness creation by reaching out those living with diabetes for equipping them with the right information and enabling them to live a happy and healthy life. Through national initiatives, we aim to provide better tools for early diagnosis, prevention, and management of diabetes.”
Representatives from the Ministry of National Health Services Regulations & Coordination, World Health Organization (WHO), Govt departments, partner organizations and many other walks of life participated in this landmark initiative, developed through collaboration between the Government of Pakistan and WHO that will provide comprehensive care for NCDs, with a focused mission to prevent and control diabetes. The establishment of this Centre underscores Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening healthcare infrastructure and addressing the growing burden of NCDs across the country.
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