KARACHI: Pakistan remains among the countries most affected by diabetes, with an estimated 34.5 million adults living with the condition, experts at the Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH) said at a media roundtable.
According to the experts, 9.3 million adults with diabetes in Pakistan, or 26.9 per cent, remain undiagnosed. They warned that without effective action to address the growing burden, the number of adults with diabetes in the country is projected to reach 70.2 million by 2050.
AKUH brought together specialists in endocrinology, vascular surgery and clinical nutrition to discuss the increasing burden of diabetes in Pakistan and the need for early recognition of risk factors.
The discussion highlighted that diabetes affects more than blood sugar levels. Over time, it can damage blood vessels and nerves, increasing the risk of complications involving the heart, kidneys, eyes and limbs.
Experts said younger adults may also be at risk, particularly those with a family history of diabetes, excess abdominal weight or sedentary lifestyles. They also cautioned that people who appear to have healthy body weight should not assume they are free from risk.
“Type 2 diabetes is not limited to older adults. Younger people, particularly those with a family history or other risk factors, should not wait for symptoms to appear before seeking screening,” said Dr Asma Ahmed, Consultant Endocrinologist at AKUH.
“For those diagnosed with diabetes, taking medication as prescribed, attending regular follow-ups and making sustainable lifestyle changes are all important for managing the condition and reducing the risk of complications,” she added.
The experts also referred to AKUH’s community-based Pakistan Diabetes Prevention Trial, which demonstrated the value of early intervention. 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.
Highlighting the impact of diabetes on circulation and nerve health, Dr Fareed Ahmed Shaikh, Assistant Professor and Section Head of Vascular Surgery at AKUH, said diabetes could affect both blood circulation and nerve function, particularly in the legs and feet.
“When sensation and blood circulation are reduced, even a small cut can go unnoticed and develop into a serious wound that, if left untreated, may ultimately lead to limb loss,” he said.
“Regular foot checks and timely medical assessment can help identify problems early and reduce the risk of severe complications,” Dr Shaikh added.
Alongside medical management, nutrition also plays an important role in preventing and managing diabetes, the roundtable was told.
“Managing diabetes does not mean giving up the foods you enjoy or following a restrictive diet,” said Farah Syed, Senior Dietitian at AKUH.
“Making balanced choices, watching portion sizes, including more vegetables, pulses and whole grains, and reducing sugary drinks can support better blood sugar management. The key is to adopt practical changes that can be sustained over time,” she said.
The specialists stressed that effective diabetes management required more than monitoring blood sugar. They said coordinated care, including medical management, vascular and foot assessments, and personalised nutritional guidance, could help patients manage the condition, reduce the risk of complications and maintain a better quality of life.
