-
-
Health experts raised alarm over Pakistan’s growing obesity crisis during a seminar hosted by a pharmaceutical company at the Lahore Press Club, revealing that 81 percent of women and 74 percent of men in the country are facing the same health conditions.
“Over 70 percent of our people are obese. Our diets are often high in sugar and fats. We don’t move enough, and that’s killing us,” said health experts in a press conference.
Doctors linked the surge in obesity to unhealthy diets, sedentary lifestyles, and excessive screen time.
Professor Dr Ghias Un Nabi Tayyab noted that many people still believe being overweight is a sign of good health.
“Our waistlines are expanding dangerously. He explained that a waistline above 35 inches in men and 31 inches in women is a red flag. Diabetes is now common in people as young as 20,” he warned, urging a switch to high-protein, high-fiber meals and a reduction in sugar and processed foods.
Gastroenterologist Prof Dr M Imran Hassan Khan called for obesity to be treated as a disease. He explained that a healthy Body Mass Index (BMI) ranges from 18 to 23, and anything above 25 indicates obesity.
He said high insulin levels from excessive carb intake lead to fat storage, heart disease, and high blood pressure. He urged people to reduce carbs to under 100 grams a day and eat more fiber-rich foods.
Orthopedic expert Dr Tariq Sohail highlighted the damage excess weight causes to bones and joints, especially knees.
“The body’s balance gets affected. The knees suffer the most. And poor diets are making bones weaker,” He criticized the late-night eating culture and stressed the need for physical activity.
The speakers emphasized early health screenings, reducing carbs, increasing daily movement, and eating better as key strategies to tackle the crisis.
