Healthy is becoming a serious public health issue in Pakistan, says Minister of State for Health
Staff Reporter — Federal Minister of State for Health, Dr. Malik Mukhtar Ahmad, has said that obesity is becoming a serious public health issue in Pakistan and that addressing it requires a comprehensive national strategy that includes prevention, early intervention, and improved access to treatment. He was speaking at an event held yesterday in connection with World Obesity Day, organized with the support of Novo Nordisk.
On this occasion, both parties reaffirmed their joint commitment to highlighting the urgent need to effectively address obesity as a growing public health priority in Pakistan.
The event was attended by the Ambassador of Denmark to Pakistan, Maja Mortensen; Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Hamid Yaqoob Sheikh; Director General Health, Dr. Abdul Wali Khan; and Head of Public Affairs at Novo Nordisk, Hasnain Ahmed.
Participants reiterated their commitment to promoting awareness, strengthening dialogue, and adopting scientifically grounded strategies for the prevention and treatment of obesity.
Dr. Malik Mukhtar Ahmad further stated that obesity is significantly increasing the burden of non-communicable diseases. He welcomed continued collaboration with all partners to promote awareness and build a healthier society across the country.
The prevalence of overweight and obesity in Pakistan is steadily rising, affecting not only adults but also children, and placing additional strain on the healthcare system. Despite its scale and impact, obesity continues to be widely misunderstood and stigmatized, creating barriers to timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment. In this context, World Obesity Day provided an important opportunity for meaningful dialogue between the Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination and Novo Nordisk, with renewed focus on scientific and long-term solutions.
The Ambassador of Denmark to Pakistan expressed her views, saying, “It is encouraging to see constructive dialogue in Pakistan regarding long-term and evidence-based solutions. Partnerships that promote knowledge exchange and innovation are vital to achieving sustainable health outcomes.”
On the occasion, Hasnain Ahmed, Head of Public Affairs at Novo Nordisk, said, “At Novo Nordisk, changing the trajectory of obesity is our global priority. With 30 years of research in obesity and a century of leadership in treating chronic diseases, Novo Nordisk is committed to supporting Pakistan’s efforts to improve awareness, reduce stigma, and expand access to effective, patient-centered treatment.”
0 Comments