By: Sanaullah Ghumman
In a recent assembly held in Islamabad, health experts voiced their disappointment at the apparent absence of a standardized approach to addressing ‘Non-Communicable Diseases’ (NCDs), particularly diabetes and hypertension, at the policy level. Despite a clear recognition of the seriousness of the health threats posed by NCDs, there is a notable neglect in establishing cohesive strategies.
The 2023 census paints a disheartening picture of Pakistan’s health landscape with regards to NCDs. With a population exceeding 241 million and a growth rate of 2.5%, NCDs, including diabetes, heart disease, and cancer, are on the ascent. The International Diabetes Federation (IDF) Atlas reports that approximately 33 million individuals in the country grapple with diabetes, representing the highest disease rate in the world. Consequently, 1,100 people in Pakistan succumb to diabetes or its complications daily, attributing 6 out of 10 deaths to NCDs.
The consequences of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and hypertension extend far beyond individual suffering, straining healthcare systems, diminishing productivity, and contributing to a cycle of intergenerational health challenges. It is, therefore, a collective responsibility to instill a sense of ownership over health at an early age and within the broader community.
There is an undeniable correlation between the consumption of sugary beverages and ultra-processed foods, and the surge in NCDs. These products often contain excessive amounts of added sugars, unhealthy fats, refined carbohydrates, and salts, contributing to conditions like obesity, high blood pressure, and metabolic disorders. The addictive nature of these foods compounds the issue, trapping individuals in a cycle of cravings and overconsumption.
Empowering young minds with preventive measures early on is crucial for laying the foundation for a lifetime of well-being. The time has come to integrate comprehensive preventive education, covering cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and hypertension, into primary and secondary school curricula nationwide. This, coupled with community-level initiatives promoting healthy lifestyles, has the potential to be a game-changer in reducing early deaths resulting from heart attacks and complications of diabetes and hypertension.
The school environment plays a pivotal role in shaping a child’s habits and attitudes. Adding modules on preventive health education in primary and secondary schools can arm students with the knowledge needed to make healthy choices. These modules should encompass the basics of cardiovascular health, the importance of a balanced diet, the risks associated with sedentary lifestyles, and the impact of stress on overall well-being.
Revamping physical education classes would not only encourage physical activity but also educate students about the role of exercise in preventing cardiovascular diseases and managing conditions like diabetes and hypertension is essential. Practical, hands-on activities can make learning about nutrition enjoyable and memorable, setting the stage for a lifetime of healthy eating habits.
Community platforms can also provide a structured environment for such education, where habits are reinforced, and collective change can occur. Community leaders, healthcare professionals, and local organizations play a vital role in promoting and sustaining healthy lifestyles.
By fostering a culture of health from the very start, we can reduce the incidence of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and hypertension, ultimately mitigating early deaths and creating a healthier, more resilient nation. The integration of comprehensive preventive health education in schools and community-level initiatives promoting healthy lifestyles represents a powerful strategy in the fight against communicable diseases. The time to act is now, and the path to a healthier future begins with education and community empowerment.
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