29 November 2025(Ghufran): Among the most serious public health challenges confronting Pakistan today, non-communicable diseases (NCDs) have emerged as the biggest and fastest-growing threat. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 58% of all deaths in Pakistan are caused by NCDs, and an alarming 2,400 people lose their lives every day due to these diseases. A heart attack occurs every minute in the country, while diabetes and its complications claim more than 1,100 lives daily. Additionally, over 450 deaths occur each day from illnesses linked to tobacco use.
Experts warn that these diseases—largely driven by unhealthy lifestyle patterns—are inflicting severe harm on society and the economy. Their rising prevalence among the younger population is particularly concerning, as it directly affects the nation’s future workforce, productivity, and overall development.
Diabetes alone paints a grim picture. According to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), Pakistan has more than 33 million people living with diabetes and ranks first globally in terms of diabetes prevalence relative to population size. The economic toll is staggering: Pakistan’s economy is losing trillions of rupees annually due to diabetes, while expenditure on diabetes-related medications exceeds USD 2.6 billion per year—an amount double the size of the country’s recent IMF loan installment. With health spending at only about 2% of GDP, chronic diseases are rapidly becoming a major barrier to national progress.
Pakistan has committed under the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to reduce NCD-related mortality by one-third by 2030. However, experts caution that this goal will remain unattainable without urgent and comprehensive preventive measures. One of the primary drivers of NCDs is poor dietary habits, including high consumption of sugar, salt, and trans fats. In Pakistan, the intake of these harmful ingredients exceeds global health standards. Ultra-processed foods, sugary drinks, salty snacks, and cheap fast food have become a routine part of daily life—especially among children and youth.
International evidence shows that simple yet effective policy interventions can significantly reduce disease burden. Countries worldwide have adopted proven reforms such as higher taxes on unhealthy foods, front-of-pack warning labels (FOPWL), bans on junk food sales in schools, and strict restrictions on advertising to children. These policies have led to measurable improvements in public health.
For Pakistan, imposing taxes on sugary drinks, salty snacks, and ultra-processed foods rich in unhealthy fats could substantially reduce consumption while generating additional government revenue that can support health and awareness programs. Similarly, the introduction of front-of-pack warning labels—highlighting “High Sugar,” “High Salt,” or “High Fat”—would empower consumers to make informed choices in seconds.
Reforms in school environments are equally critical. Banning junk food sales, implementing healthy school meal guidelines, and providing nutrition education can protect children and promote long-term health. Additionally, restricting the advertising of unhealthy foods to children on television, digital platforms, mobile apps, and social media has successfully reduced consumption in many countries and should be urgently considered in Pakistan.
No nation can progress without a healthy population. For Pakistan to achieve economic stability and meet its SDG commitments, tackling NCDs must become a national priority. The most effective pathway lies in regulating unhealthy foods, strengthening legislation, enforcing strict standards, and raising public awareness. A stronger economy is possible only with a healthier population—and safeguarding Pakistan’s future depends on decisive action taken today.