Pakistan Faces 34.5 Million Diabetes Cases; Health Minister Calls for Urgent Preventive Action
ISLAMABAD, November 12, 2026: Minister of State for National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination, Dr Mukhtar Ahmad Malik, has called for stronger preventive healthcare policies, nationwide public awareness and increased investment in primary healthcare to tackle the rising burden of diabetes and other non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Pakistan.He made these remarks while addressing an event organized by the Pakistan National Heart Association (PANAH) to mark World Diabetes Day 2026 under the theme “Early Action on Diabetes”, where he attended as the chief guest.Highlighting the alarming situation, Dr Mukhtar Ahmad Malik said that approximately 34.5 million people in Pakistan are living with diabetes, according to the IDF Diabetes Atlas 2025, with nearly one-third of adults affected. He stressed that diabetes is not only a public health concern but also a major economic and development challenge that requires immediate and coordinated action.The minister emphasized the importance of evidence-based policies, including health taxes on sugary drinks, front-of-pack warning labels and restrictions on marketing unhealthy food to children.
He also called for greater investment in public awareness, healthy lifestyles, early screening and timely diagnosis through a strengthened primary healthcare system.Referring to government initiatives, he highlighted the Prime Minister’s Programme for the Prevention and Control of Diabetes Mellitus, which includes a commitment of Rs6.8 billion for nationwide diabetes screening, initially starting in Islamabad before being extended to the provinces.He also stressed the need for research into the relationship between mental health, stress and diabetes, calling for mental health considerations to be integrated into broader strategies for preventing non-communicable diseases.Regarding PANAH’s proposal to establish a National Diabetes and NCDs Conclave, the minister assured the association of the Ministry’s institutional support and facilitation, including coordination with provincial governments, development partners and relevant stakeholders.
Concluding his remarks, Dr Mukhtar Ahmad Malik called for collective efforts by federal and provincial governments, civil society, development partners and the private sector to address the growing disease burden. He urged citizens to undergo regular blood sugar screening, reduce sugary drink consumption and adopt healthier, more active lifestyles.He emphasized that the true success of a healthcare system lies not only in treating diseases but, more importantly, in preventing them.“Early action today means a healthier Pakistan tomorrow,” he remarked.
