Youth Can Play Vital Role in Preventing Growing NCD Pandemic: Gen Kiani
PANAH urges immediate implementation of Front-of-Pack Warning Labels to protect public health.
24 September 2026
Islamabad: The Pakistan National Heart Association (PANAH) organized an awareness session on the growing threat of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and the need for mandatory Front-of-Pack Warning Labels (FOPWLs) at Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, on 24 September 2026.
Speaking on the occasion, President PANAH Maj. Gen. (R) Masud-ur-Rehman Kiani said that the rapidly increasing burden of NCDs has become a serious public-health emergency in Pakistan. Diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular diseases, kidney diseases and certain cancers are affecting millions of people, while around 60% of deaths in Pakistan are linked to NCDs.He said the widespread consumption of ultra-processed and unhealthy food products, particularly those high in sugar, salt and unhealthy fats, is a major contributor to this health crisis.
Maj. Gen. (R) Kiani emphasized that consumers have a right to know what they are eating and called for the immediate implementation of mandatory FOPWLs. He said clear and easily understandable warning labels can help consumers identify products high in sugar, salt and unhealthy fats and make healthier choices.
PANAH General Secretary Sana Ullah Ghumman said that Pakistan’s youth can become a powerful force in preventing the NCD pandemic. He urged students to support PANAH’s campaign for mandatory FOPWLs and to use social media, digital platforms, university societies and community engagement to spread awareness about healthy eating and the harmful effects of excessive consumption of unhealthy and ultra-processed foods. Mr. Ghumman said that young people are not only the future of Pakistan but can also play an important role today in creating awareness, influencing healthy choices and advocating for stronger public-health policies.
PANAH called upon students, universities, health professionals, civil society and policymakers to join hands in preventing NCDs and ensuring the effective implementation of mandatory Front-of-Pack Warning Labels in Pakistan to protect consumers and future generations.
