Youth Urged to Raise Their Voices against Unhealthy-Foods and Growing Burden of Non-Communicable-Diseases
PANAH Engages Government College Women University Faisalabad Students in Campaign for Mandatory Front-of-Pack Warning Labels
Faisalabad – 5 November 2026 (MT Team) : The Pakistan National Heart Association (PANAH) organized a youth engagement and awareness session at Government College Women University Faisalabad to highlight the growing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Pakistan and mobilize students to advocate for mandatory Front-of-Pack Warning Labels (FOPWLs) on unhealthy ultra-processed food products.
Addressing the participants, PANAH Secretary General Sana Ullah Ghumman delivered a detailed presentation on the alarming rise of diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular diseases and other NCDs in Pakistan, highlighting that these diseases account for approximately 60% of deaths in the country. He explained how excessive consumption of ultra-processed foods high in sugar, salt and unhealthy fats is contributing to this growing public-health crisis.
Ghumman also shared key facts and figures about FOPWLs, explaining how clear and prominent warning labels can help consumers identify products high in harmful nutrients, make informed food choices and protect their health. Highlighting successful international examples, including Chile, Mexico and other countries, he emphasized that mandatory warning labels have become an important policy tool for promoting healthier diets and protecting consumers.
He urged the government to immediately introduce and implement mandatory FOPWL regulations in Pakistan, stressing that consumers have the right to know what they are eating. He also encouraged students to play an active role in raising awareness and supporting PANAH’s campaign for stronger public-health policies.
Ayesha Sameen, Director External Linkages at the University, appreciated PANAH’s initiative and emphasized the importance of engaging young people and educational institutions in promoting healthier lifestyles and addressing public-health challenges.
The session was organized under the supervision of Dr. Saima Tahseen, Dr. Rizwana Batool, Dr. Aqsa Parveen and Ayesha Siddiqa.
PANAH reiterated its commitment to engaging youth and educational institutions across the country and called for the immediate enactment of mandatory Front-of-Pack Warning Labels to ensure informed consumer choices and a healthier future for Pakistan.
