PM Shehbaz, Maryam Nawaz stress early screening to combat rising diabetes cases

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif have emphasised the need for early screening, timely medical intervention and public awareness to address the rapidly increasing prevalence of diabetes in Pakistan.

In his message on World Diabetes Day, observed on November 14, 2026, the prime minister said the rapid spread of diabetes was becoming a serious public health challenge in the country. He stressed that timely screening and medical intervention were essential to prevent complications and save precious lives.

Shehbaz Sharif said Pakistan was joining the international community in highlighting the importance of effective measures and mutual cooperation to prevent diabetes. He noted that diabetes is a major public health problem worldwide, affecting millions of people. He added that expanding the coverage of early diagnosis and treatment facilities is essential to contain the spread of the disease in Pakistan. The Prime Minister said that the Prime Minister’s Diabetes Prevention and Control Program has been designed to combat the disease and the federal government has allocated Rs 680 crore for its implementation.

He said the plan aims to expand screening for early detection, improve primary health care facilities and increase public access to diagnosis and treatment.

Shehbaz Sharif added that promoting healthy lifestyles, raising public awareness and ensuring effective coordination between federal and provincial governments were also among the programme’s priorities.

He urged citizens to adopt healthy lifestyles, consume balanced and nutritious diets, make exercise part of their daily routines and undergo regular medical check-ups and screening. He also advised people to seek timely medical advice from qualified healthcare professionals.

Meanwhile, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, in her special message on World Diabetes Day, described diabetes as a silent enemy that could be controlled through precautionary measures, awareness and a disciplined lifestyle.

She said the rising prevalence of diabetes in Pakistan required more effective measures, adding that the rapid spread of the disease was a cause for concern but could be addressed through collective efforts.

Maryam Nawaz said health was a fundamental right of every citizen and the Punjab government was taking steps to ensure healthcare facilities reached people at their doorsteps. She said that for the first time in history, insulin kits are being delivered to the homes of children with type 1 diabetes.

The chief minister added that millions of medicine kits are also being sent home to patients suffering from diabetes and other diseases to ensure they have access to medical facilities at their doorsteps. She encouraged citizens to take responsibility for their own health and emphasized the importance of adopting a healthy lifestyle.

She said a balanced diet, regular exercise and continuous blood sugar monitoring are key to preventing and controlling diabetes. Maryam Nawaz believes that the fight against diabetes is not only the responsibility of the government but also the collective responsibility of society. She said raising public awareness and taking preventive measures can help slow the spread of the disease. She added that the theme of this year’s World Diabetes Day is “Diabetes and Health”, which emphasizes the importance of early screening and medical care to prevent complications.