Health experts have raised alarms over a growing obesity crisis in Pakistan, revealing that 81% of women and 74% of men are now classified as obese. The warning was issued during a health seminar hosted by Getz Pharma at the Lahore Press Club, aimed at raising public awareness.
Doctors attributed the crisis to poor diets, physical inactivity, and excessive screen time. Dr Ghias Un Nabi Tayyab, a gastroenterology professor, said many Pakistanis still mistakenly associate weight gain with good health. He stressed that over 70% of the population is obese, mainly due to high sugar and fat consumption, along with a sedentary lifestyle.
He added that waist measurements exceeding 35 inches in men and 31 inches in women are indicators of serious health risks. Dr Tayyab also noted the increasing number of young diabetes patients, some as young as 20. He advised adopting high-protein, high-fiber diets and avoiding sugar and processed foods.
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Prof Dr M Imran Hassan Khan said obesity must be treated like a chronic disease. He explained that a healthy BMI ranges from 18 to 23, and values above 25 signal obesity. He emphasized that excess insulin promotes fat storage, leading to heart disease and high blood pressure.
Orthopaedic specialist Dr Tariq Sohail said excess weight weakens joints and bones, with the knees suffering the most. He blamed late-night eating habits and urged the public to increase physical activity.
Kashif Amin, speaking at the event, stressed that health awareness can reduce disease and economic loss. A free health camp at the event revealed high rates of obesity, hypertension, and diabetes among journalists and their families.