KARACHI: According to health experts Pakistan is among the few countries where the incidence of diabetes has mushroomed very quickly and unless people overhaul their lifestyle and eating habits the number of diabetic patients in Pakistan could double from just over 7 million to well over 14 million in just four years.
Professor Zaman Shiekh from the Sir Syed University Hospital warns that if people do not change their lifestyle and continue to indulge in overly greasy unhealthy food coupled with no exercise the silent killer will haunt our future generations.
Explaining the various types of Diabetes that affect patients, Dr. Fareeduddin from the Dow University of Health Sciences told Geo News that Type 2 Diabetes is more prevalent among adult Pakistanis with Type 1 usually affecting children under 15 years of age.
Calling diabetes a ‘silent killer’ the Dr. Fareeduddin added that if the incidence of diabetes is not recognized and treated – or rather kept at bay by using Insulin – it can affect vital organs including the heart, eyes and lungs.
Recognizing the symptoms is extremely important according to Dr. Fareeduddin which includes weight loss, frequent urination and feeling extremely thirsty and hungry all the time.
Since there is no cure for diabetes, once it settles in it remains active till one breathes his or her last breath Professor Zaman added.
To spread awareness about diabetes the International Diabetic Federation along with the World Health Organization observes 14th November as World Diabetic Day. This years theme focuses on keeping ‘eyes on diabetes’ encouraging people with relatives who suffer from diabetes to monitor their own sugar level every month.
Besides monitoring sugar levels, experts advise to include a minimum of 30 minutes of exercise every day and to steer clear of the unhealthy oily dishes and processed fast food as well.
