KARACHI: Healthcare professionals, medical science experts, and educationists have agreed that the growing number of diabetic patients in the country poses a serious health challenge to society. They have warned that diabetes can cause severe health complications, with over three million patients suffering from foot ulcers that can lead to amputations.

Referring to the data, they noted that around 16 to 20 per cent of diabetic patients in the country experience eye problems, while 28pc develop kidney failure, often requiring costly dialysis. These statistics were shared at an awareness seminar organised by the University of Karachi’s (KU) Medical Centre in collaboration with Discovering Diabetes, in anticipation of World Diabetes Day 2024.

Addressing the session, diabetes expert Dr Zahid Miyan highlighted that Pakistan is home to an estimated 33 million diabetes patients, warning that the actual number may be even higher. He urged people to adopt healthy lifestyles to prevent complications associated with the disease.

Dr Miyan emphasised the gravity of diabetes-related disabilities, noting that approximately 35 people lose a limb daily due to diabetic complications, resulting in an estimated 600,000 preventable amputations each year.

He called for the establishment of accessible diabetic care facilities across the country, particularly foot care clinics, which are scarce in both the public and private sectors.

The economic burden on patients is substantial, as Dr Miyan explained, with a single dialysis session costing at least 5,000 rupees. For those requiring three sessions weekly, the monthly cost reaches 60,000 rupees, driving many families into financial hardship.

Karachi University Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Khalid Mahmood Iraqi emphasised the urgency of tackling diabetes through preventive measures, warning that if current trends continue, Pakistan could lead globally in diabetes cases. He advocated for strict adherence to prescribed medications instead of self-medication and underscored the role of universities, particularly the University of Karachi, in raising awareness to encourage healthier lifestyles.

Published in Dawn, November 10th, 2024