Youth Can Play Vital Role in Combating Rising NCDs: Sanaullah Ghumman
Islamabad – 23 September 2026 (Adnan Hameed) : PANAH organizes a session on the growing threat of non-communicable diseases at the RIPHAH University Islamabad Campus on 23rd September 2026.
Technical advisor of PANAH Abdul Hafiz said that Increasing non-communicable diseases have become a huge problem in Pakistan, due to which millions of people are suffering from diabetes, obesity, heart disease, kidney diseases and some types of cancer.
60% of deaths in Pakistan are due to these non-communicable diseases. Consumption of ultra-processed products plays a major role in this national health emergency. One of the major reasons for this is the consumption of unhealthy food, with the widespread use of ultra-processed products being the top culprit. He added that extensive national and international research has established the importance of clear and easily understandable warning labels in helping consumers identify products high in sugar, salt, unhealthy fats and calories.
Sana Ullah Ghumman, General Secretary of the Pakistan National Heart Association (PANAH), said that youth are the future of nation and can play a vital role in protecting public health and promoting healthy lifestyles.
Ghumman urged students to support PANAH’s efforts for the implementation of mandatory Front-of-Pack Warning Labels (FOPWLs) on unhealthy food products. He emphasized that clear warning labels can help consumers identify products high in sugar, salt and unhealthy fats and make informed choices.
He said countries including Chile, Mexico, Argentina, Peru and Uruguay have introduced mandatory front-of-pack warning systems, with evidence showing that such policies can influence consumer purchasing behavior and encourage manufacturers to reformulate products. He appealed to students to use digital and other plate forms engagements to educate people about healthy eating and encourage collective action for a healthier Pakistan
