Peshawar:Pakistan is facing a sharp rise in non-communicable diseases (NCDs), with millions suffering from diabetes, obesity, heart disease, kidney disorders, and certain types of cancer. Currently, 60% of deaths in the country are attributed to NCDs. One of the major contributing factors is the increased consumption of unhealthy foods, particularly ultra-processed products that are high in sugar, salt, and fat. Experts noted that the consumption of such products has surged significantly in Pakistan, necessitating urgent policy measures by the government. Proven strategies from around the world, such as imposing higher taxes on these products, have effectively reduced their consumption. The government of Pakistan is urged to prioritize public health by increasing taxes on sugary drinks and other ultra-processed food items. These views were expressed by religious scholars and health professionals during a seminar held today at a local hotel in Peshawar. The event was organized by the Pakistan National Heart Association (PANAH) and attended by scholars from various schools of thought, health experts, and media representatives. The chief guest was former Governor KPK Mr. Iqbal Zaffar Jhagra. Other participants includes Maulana Muhammad Ismael, Qari Roohullah Madni, Mr. Amjad Yousafzai, Allama Maqsood Ahmed Salafi, Professor Dr. Fida Hussain, ulema, civil society and media representatives. Ulema passed a resolution demanding Government to play its role to control the unhealthy Ultra-processed products.
Addressing the gathering, Iqbal Zaffar Jhagra emphasized that Pakistan is grappling with serious health challenges and must shift its focus from treatment to prevention. This effort requires collaboration among religious leaders, educators, and all segments of society to steer the nation out of this crisis. The dedication with which PANAH is working to protect citizens from preventable diseases is truly commendable.
Health & Nutrition expert Munawar Hussain highlighted alarming statistics: over 1,100 people in Pakistan die daily due to diabetes and its complications. More than 41% of adults are either obese or overweight. Furthermore, over 33 million people are currently living with diabetes, with another 10 million on the verge of developing the disease. Ultra-processed foods and sugary beverages play a major role in causing diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, cancer, kidney failure, and other chronic illnesses. In 2021 alone, the annual cost of managing diabetes in Pakistan exceeded USD 2.64 billion. He stressed the urgent need for policy interventions to address the escalating threat of diabetes and other NCDs. Citing international examples, he urged the government to impose significant taxes on these harmful products in the upcoming budget.
PANAH Secretary General Sanaullah Ghumman stated that for the past 40 years, PANAH has been raising awareness about NCDs and advocating for legislative measures to reduce the consumption of their contributing factors. He emphasized the influential role of religious leaders, whose voices are widely respected and trusted. He appealed to them to not only raise awareness among the public but also to pressure the government for effective legislation. He also warned that the food industry often misleads policymakers with manipulated data, and urged the government to prioritize public health over industry interests by implementing higher taxes.
In their speeches, religious scholars pledged to use their platforms to educate the public about the health risks of ultra-processed foods. They called on the government to increase taxes on unhealthy food and beverage products instead of taxing essentials such as stationery, fuel, and other basic necessities.
