Pakistan is on the brink of a major health disaster as more than 100 million adults – over three out of every four citizens – are now overweight or obese, national and international health experts warned at a high-level moot in Islamabad on Thursday.
The alarming rise in obesity is fueling a surge in diabetes, heart disease, strokes, cancers, infertility, and sleep disorders. Experts cautioned that without immediate interventions, the country faces an unprecedented public health emergency.
Prof. Waseem Hanif, from the University of Birmingham, emphasized that obesity is a chronic disease that cuts life short and severely affects quality of life. He noted that while globally 2.5 billion adults are overweight, South Asians face higher risks at lower body weights. He highlighted tirzepatide, a new treatment that can significantly reduce weight, but stressed the necessity of combining it with a balanced diet and exercise.
The conference also marked the launch of Pakistan’s first generic tirzepatide by Getz Pharma. Prof. Saleem Qureshi noted that this local availability could make diabetes remission achievable for many. However, he warned of a future where over half of Pakistani children could be obese by adulthood if current trends continue.
Prof. Jamal Zafar underscored the importance of lifestyle changes alongside medication. He stated that exercise not only aids weight loss but also suppresses appetite, making it a crucial component of treatment.
Dr. Khurram Hussain from Getz Pharma reiterated the company’s commitment to providing affordable, evidence-based therapies. He mentioned their role in advancing GLP-1 and GIP therapy to aid weight reduction and mitigate risks of diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
Dr. Khurram Nasir, presenting findings from the PAK-SEHAT study, revealed that only 20% of adults in Pakistan have a normal BMI, with obesity being a major risk factor for cardiovascular issues.
The event concluded with a call to policymakers to recognize obesity as a chronic disease that demands both medical treatment and lifestyle changes.