Renowned Endocrinologist of Liaquat National Hospital Karachi, Dr Saeed A Mehar stated that Diabetes cases are increasing at an alarming rate in Pakistan as more than 7.1 million people are currently living with diabetes in the country, many of them still undiagnosed and unaware.
He shared these views while addressing a press conference in connection withthe World Diabetes Day 2014 at Karachi Press Club. Cardiologist, National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Prof Zia Yaqoob, Gynecologist Dr Shabeen Naaz Masood and Dietitian Salma Siddiqui were also present on this occasion.
Dr Saeed said that Diabetes is affecting 382 million people worldwide, is currently one of most common non-communicable global diseases and fourth leading cause of death in the world.
Dr Shabeen Naaz Masood explained, “Diabetes occurring in women during pregnancy is called ‘baby sugar’ and the disease generally appears without any prior symptoms. The condition is very dangerous for both, the mother as well as the child. Testing for diabetes three times during pregnancy is very essential to ensure optimal health.” She added that unfortunately there was no data available about Diabetes at national level. She said environment and genetic problems are the major reasons behind the prevalence of the disease.
Cardiologist, Prof Zia Yaqoob said that diabetes affects nearly all human organs like heart, eyes, kidney, nerves and blood vessels. He also explained how it increases the risk of heart attack, stroke and blood pressure. He further stated that Diabetes cases are rapidly increasing particularly in the South-Asian region, and preventive measures should be adopted to keep such diseases at bay.
Clinical Dietitian Dr Salma Siddiqui said that the theme of World Diabetes Day 2014 is ‘Healthy Eating begins with Breakfast’. She said making healthy dietary choices particularly in breakfast by avoiding unnecessary fats; consuming more fresh fruit and vegetables, exercising daily, and keeping an active lifestyle are all keys to staying diabetes-free.
Source: Medical News Pakistan