PANAH Engages CUST Students in Campaign Against Unhealthy Foods and Rising NCDs
CUST Students Urged to Promote Healthy Eating and Prevent Non-Communicable Diseases
Islamabad – 16 October 2026 (Adnan Hameed) : The Pakistan National Heart Association (PANAH), continuing its nationwide youth engagement campaign, organized an awareness session at the Capital University of Science and Technology (CUST) to educate students about the harmful effects of ultra-processed products (UPPs) and the importance of Front-of-Pack Warning Labels (FOPWL) in preventing non-communicable diseases (NCDs). The session brought together students, faculty members and youth advocates to discuss the alarming rise in diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, obesity and other diet-related NCDs in Pakistan.
Addressing the participants, Sana Ullah Ghumman, Secretary General PANAH, highlighted the growing health challenges associated with unhealthy dietary habits and frequent consumption of ultra-processed products. He emphasized that mandatory Front-of-Pack Warning Labels can help consumers, particularly young people, easily identify packaged products containing excessive sugar, salt and unhealthy fats, enabling them to make informed and healthier food choices.
He urged students to become ambassadors of public health and actively support evidence-based policies aimed at creating healthier food environments. He stressed that public awareness and effective government policies must go hand in hand to reduce the growing burden of NCDs.
Ghulam Abbas, Vice President PANAH, highlighted the importance of youth participation in promoting healthier lifestyles and preventing NCDs. He said universities provide an effective platform for educating future generations about the dangers of unhealthy food consumption. He encouraged students to spread awareness among their families, peers and communities and support PANAH’s campaign for mandatory Front-of-Pack Warning Labels on ultra-processed products.
Speaking on behalf of the university, Professor X appreciated PANAH’s continued efforts to protect public health through awareness and policy advocacy. He acknowledged the importance of engaging students in preventive health initiatives and expressed support for strengthening collaboration between the university and PANAH.
The session concluded with a renewed commitment to promoting youth-led health awareness and encouraging students to play an active role in preventing NCDs. PANAH reaffirmed its commitment to expanding its university-based awareness campaign across Pakistan to build a healthier and better-informed generation
