Pakistan Urged to Treat Obesity as Chronic Disease Amid Rising Prevalence -

With an estimated 38 million people in Pakistan living with obesity, health professionals are calling for the condition to be recognised as a chronic disease and for greater access to medical and surgical treatment.

According to World Health Organisation (WHO) data, about 23 per cent of Pakistani adults are living with obesity, representing a 16.4pc increase over the past decade. Model estimates suggest that nearly 60pc of adults are now overweight, while 25pc are obese. Obesity rates have more than tripled over the past two decades, making it an increasingly serious public health concern.

Health experts estimate that around 38 million Pakistanis are affected by obesity, with women and urban populations disproportionately impacted. The situation is also becoming more concerning among children, with around 40pc classified as overweight or obese. Projections suggest that, if current trends continue, 57pc of Pakistani children could be obese by the age of 35.

A WHO-supported STEPS survey identified insufficient physical activity and low consumption of fruits and vegetables among the significant risk factors contributing to obesity. The WHO classifies obesity as a chronic, relapsing disease associated with a range of health conditions, including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and other non-communicable diseases.

The concerns were highlighted during an Obesity Evening in Lahore, organised by Chisel Health as the concluding event of its Obesity Awareness Week. The event brought together patients, healthcare professionals and community members to discuss obesity awareness, education and contemporary treatment options.

Speakers stressed the need to move away from viewing obesity solely as a consequence of lifestyle choices or a lack of willpower. They called instead for personalised, evidence-based approaches combining medical care, lifestyle interventions and, where appropriate, surgical treatment.

Dr Tanveer Abbas, a bariatric surgeon, said obesity should no longer be regarded as a failure of willpower. He emphasised that recognising it as a chronic disease could help patients receive appropriate medical and surgical support aimed at achieving sustainable health outcomes rather than focusing solely on weight loss.

Through Chisel Health, Dr Abbas has established an obesity-focused centre offering multidisciplinary assessment and treatment, including bariatric surgery and other weight-management procedures. – ERMD

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