Healthy Lifestyle Can Reverse Diabetes

Pakistan is grappling with a major health issue, as over 6.7 million people are estimated to be living with diabetes, but only about half of them have been diagnosed. Among those diagnosed, only 50% receive proper treatment, and just 30% achieve their treatment targets. This is concerning, given that diabetes can lead to serious complications, such as foot ulcers, vision problems, and kidney failure.

Experts warn that diabetes-related disabilities are on the rise, with around 35 people losing a limb every day due to complications from the condition. This amounts to an estimated 600,000 preventable amputations each year.

To address this crisis, healthcare professionals stress the importance of adopting a healthy lifestyle to prevent complications. Key recommendations include:

• Healthy Diet: Prioritize whole foods, fruits, and vegetables.
• Regular Exercise: Engage in at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity.
• Maintain Healthy Weight: Reduce body mass index (BMI) to minimize risk.

Additionally, experts call for the establishment of more accessible diabetic care facilities, particularly foot care clinics, which are currently scarce in both the public and private sectors.

The financial burden on patients is significant. A single dialysis session costs at least 5,000 rupees, and for those requiring three sessions per week, the monthly cost can reach 60,000 rupees, causing severe financial strain for many families.

In response to this challenge, Pakistan has developed national guidelines for the management of Type-2 diabetes, specifically tailored for resource-constrained settings. These guidelines aim to provide optimal diabetes care across all levels, from primary to tertiary care.