Islamabad 06 May, 2025( Ghufran ): Recommendations include taxation and front-of-package warning labels on Ultra-processed products to curb growing health crisis.
Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) have become the leading cause of mortality in Pakistan, accounting for nearly 60% of all deaths, posing a grave threat to national productivity, human capital, and the healthcare system. In response, the Pakistan National Heart Association (PANAH) convened the 5th meeting of its high-level think tank in Islamabad to develop strategic interventions aimed at curbing the NCD epidemic.
Chaired by Maj Gen (R) Masud Ur Rehman Kiani, President of PANAH, the session brought together leading health experts, policy advocates, and civil society representatives. Maj Gen Kiani expressed deep concern over the alarming rise in heart disease, diabetes, and other NCDs, largely driven by modifiable risk factors such as excessive sugar intake, consumption of ultra-processed foods, tobacco use, and physical inactivity.
“The unchecked consumption of ultra-processed products loaded with salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats is wreaking havoc on public health,” said Maj Gen Kiani. “We must take urgent action to reduce exposure to these dietary risks through education, regulation, and advocacy.”
During the meeting, participants agreed that one of the primary drivers of the increase in NCDs is the prevalence of unhealthy foods, particularly ultra-processed items high in salt, sugar, and fat. They discussed agreed that front-of-pack warning labels will contribute positively in reduction of NCDs in Pakistan.
The think tank proposed the mandatory implementation of Front-of-Pack Warning Labels (FOPL) to help consumers make informed dietary choices. Members also strongly recommended imposing higher taxes on sugary beverages, a measure proven globally to reduce consumption and discourage unhealthy dietary habits.
PANAH think tank gave recommendations to policymakers to increase taxes on UPPs in Finance Bill and enact mandatory FOPWLs on UPPs.
This multi-pronged initiative underscores PANAH’s commitment to reducing the burden of NCDs through evidence-based interventions and collaborative national efforts.