Message from Mr Asif Ali Zardari
President of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan
On World Diabetes Day, 14 November 2026
On World Diabetes Day, I call upon all Pakistanis to make prevention, healthy living and early diagnosis a national priority. This year’s theme, “Early Action on Diabetes”, reminds us that timely action can save lives and prevent serious complications.
The latest International Diabetes Federation estimates indicate that 34.5 million adults in Pakistan were living with diabetes in 2024, with more than one-quarter undiagnosed. This enormous burden demands sustained action to protect the health and well-being of our people.
Many cases of type 2 diabetes can be prevented or delayed through a balanced diet, regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding tobacco. I urge citizens to reduce sugary drinks, limit foods high in sugar and unhealthy fats, and make walking, exercise and sport part of daily life. Families and schools have a special responsibility to encourage healthy habits from childhood.
Awareness must reach every community throughout the year. I urge the Federal and Provincial Governments, healthcare professionals, educational institutions, media and civil society to organise coordinated campaigns in Urdu and regional languages. These campaigns should provide simple, practical guidance on prevention, warning signs and when and where to seek screening.
Our efforts must extend across Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, Islamabad Capital Territory, Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir. Particular attention should be given to women, older persons, low-income families and rural and remote communities. Lady Health Workers, basic health units and community organisations can help bring reliable information and screening closer to people’s homes.
Diabetes can develop without obvious symptoms. Awareness campaigns must therefore encourage people to seek professional advice about their risks and appropriate testing. Early diagnosis must be followed by affordable treatment and continuing care.
Healthy living also requires supportive public policies. We must promote nutritious and affordable food, healthier school meals, safe drinking water and accessible spaces for walking and recreation, particularly for women and children.
Let us turn awareness into everyday action. By investing in prevention and helping people make healthier choices, we can reduce the burden of diabetes and build a healthier Pakistan.
President of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan
On World Diabetes Day, 14 November 2026
On World Diabetes Day, I call upon all Pakistanis to make prevention, healthy living and early diagnosis a national priority. This year’s theme, “Early Action on Diabetes”, reminds us that timely action can save lives and prevent serious complications.
The latest International Diabetes Federation estimates indicate that 34.5 million adults in Pakistan were living with diabetes in 2024, with more than one-quarter undiagnosed. This enormous burden demands sustained action to protect the health and well-being of our people.
Many cases of type 2 diabetes can be prevented or delayed through a balanced diet, regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding tobacco. I urge citizens to reduce sugary drinks, limit foods high in sugar and unhealthy fats, and make walking, exercise and sport part of daily life. Families and schools have a special responsibility to encourage healthy habits from childhood.
Awareness must reach every community throughout the year. I urge the Federal and Provincial Governments, healthcare professionals, educational institutions, media and civil society to organise coordinated campaigns in Urdu and regional languages. These campaigns should provide simple, practical guidance on prevention, warning signs and when and where to seek screening.
Our efforts must extend across Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, Islamabad Capital Territory, Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir. Particular attention should be given to women, older persons, low-income families and rural and remote communities. Lady Health Workers, basic health units and community organisations can help bring reliable information and screening closer to people’s homes.
Diabetes can develop without obvious symptoms. Awareness campaigns must therefore encourage people to seek professional advice about their risks and appropriate testing. Early diagnosis must be followed by affordable treatment and continuing care.
Healthy living also requires supportive public policies. We must promote nutritious and affordable food, healthier school meals, safe drinking water and accessible spaces for walking and recreation, particularly for women and children.
Let us turn awareness into everyday action. By investing in prevention and helping people make healthier choices, we can reduce the burden of diabetes and build a healthier Pakistan.
