ISLAMABAD: Minister of State for National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination Dr Mukhtar Ahmad Malik has called for stronger preventive health policies, greater public awareness and increased investment in primary healthcare to address the growing burden of diabetes and other non-communicable diseases in Pakistan.
He was speaking as chief guest at an event organised by the Pakistan National Heart Association (PANAH) to mark World Diabetes Day 2026. The event was held under the theme “Early Action on Diabetes” and included a presentation on the diabetes situation in Pakistan, besides a proposal for setting up a National Diabetes and NCDs Conclave.
The minister appreciated PANAH’s continued advocacy for healthier food policies and prevention of non-communicable diseases.
Citing the IDF Diabetes Atlas 2025, Dr Malik said around 34.5 million people in Pakistan were living with diabetes, while nearly one-third of adults were affected by the disease. He said diabetes was not only a health issue but also a major economic and development challenge, requiring urgent action on prevention, early diagnosis and treatment.
He stressed that more resources should be directed towards public awareness, healthy lifestyles and preventive healthcare. He said evidence-based food policies were needed, including health taxes on sugary drinks, front-of-pack warning labels and restrictions on the marketing of unhealthy food to children.
Dr Malik also underlined the importance of strengthening primary healthcare as the basis for screening, early diagnosis and timely referral.
Referring to government initiatives, the minister highlighted the Prime Minister’s Programme for the Prevention and Control of Diabetes Mellitus, saying Rs6.8 billion had been committed for nationwide diabetes screening. The screening would begin from Islamabad and later be extended to the provinces.
He also called for research to better understand the link between mental health, stress and diabetes, and said mental health considerations should be integrated into wider NCD prevention efforts.
On PANAH’s proposal for a National Diabetes and NCDs Conclave, Dr Malik assured the Ministry’s institutional support and facilitation, including engagement with provincial governments, development partners and relevant stakeholders. He encouraged preparation of a comprehensive proposal to take the initiative forward.
The minister said tackling non-communicable diseases required coordinated efforts by the federal government, provinces, civil society, development partners and the private sector. He added that public awareness campaigns should focus on regular blood sugar screening, reducing sugary drink consumption and adopting healthier and more active lifestyles.
“The real success of a healthcare system lies not only in treating illness but, more importantly, in preventing it,” he said, adding: “Early action today means a healthier Pakistan tomorrow.”
