Pakistan’s Diabetes Crisis Deepens — 3.4 Million at Risk of Amputation, Experts Warn

Pakistan’s Diabetes Burden Escalates: Over 3.4 Million at Risk of Amputation

KARACHI: Medical experts have raised alarm over the worsening diabetes crisis in Pakistan, revealing that nearly 10% of the nation’s diabetic population is affected by diabetic foot, a condition that can lead to dangerous ulcers and even limb amputation. This translates to more than 3.4 million people at risk of losing a limb if urgent preventive and treatment measures are not taken.

The warning came during the inauguration of a state-of-the-art multidisciplinary diabetes care facility at the Baqai Institute of Diabetology and Endocrinology (BIDE). Pakistan currently holds the unfortunate record for the highest diabetes prevalence rate globally, with the disease driving a silent epidemic of heart attacks, strokes, kidney failure, blindness, and long-term disability.

A Growing Public Health Emergency

BIDE Director Prof. Zahid Miyan stressed that diabetes is the leading global cause of kidney failure and amputations, as well as a major contributor to stroke.

“These are not mere numbers — these are people whose lives are being lost or permanently altered,” he said, warning that without immediate action, the human and financial cost will only escalate.

A Comprehensive Care Hub for Diabetes Patients

The newly launched facility at BIDE is equipped with 15 specialized clinics and staffed by over 30 expert consultants. Its services integrate treatment for diabetes and related complications under one roof, including:

• Cardiac clinic

• Neurology & stroke clinic

• Nephrology clinic

• Eye care clinic

This model ensures timely, coordinated, and holistic treatment, improving both patient outcomes and quality of life.

BIDE Deputy Director Dr. Saif ul Haq explained that the multidisciplinary approach addresses the full spectrum of diabetes management — from prevention and early diagnosis to the treatment of severe complications.

A Vision of Hope and Healing

Fizza Baqai, Trustee of the Baqai Foundation, cut the ribbon at the inauguration, calling the hospital a “promise of hope, healing, and better lives”.

The launch event saw attendance from top officials in the healthcare sector and representatives from leading pharmaceutical companies, including Atco Pharma, Pharmevo, Novo Nordisk Pakistan, Hoest Pakistan, Maxtech, Martin Dow, Getz, Searle Laboratories, Highnoon Pharma, and Horizon.

Haroon Qasim, CEO of Pharmevo and Premier Group, praised BIDE’s work as a milestone in bringing quality, affordable healthcare to the masses.

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