Pakistan Confronts Alarming Rise in Obesity Cases
On World Obesity Day 2026, State Minister for National Health Services and Regulations Dr. Mukhtar Ahmad Malik issued a stark warning about the growing obesity crisis in Pakistan. He cautioned that the economic burden of obesity could more than double by 2030 if urgent and sustained interventions are not implemented.
Speaking at an event organized in collaboration with Novo Nordisk, Dr. Malik highlighted that nearly 38 million Pakistanis—one in three individuals—are living with obesity. Women and urban populations are disproportionately affected, while childhood obesity continues to rise. He stressed that obesity is a major modifiable risk factor for non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular illnesses, and certain cancers, all of which are straining the healthcare system.
According to WHO data, obesity prevalence among adults in Pakistan reached 23 percent in 2022, marking a sharp 16.4 percent increase over the previous decade. The economic impact is equally concerning: in 2019, obesity-related healthcare costs totaled USD 3.41 billion, or 1.1 percent of GDP. Projections suggest this figure could climb to USD 7.6 billion (Rs 2.13 trillion) by 2030 without effective prevention strategies.
Dr. Malik emphasized lifestyle improvements, balanced diets, discouraging fast food consumption, and promoting physical activity as key preventive measures. He noted that obesity prevention has been integrated into national health planning, particularly through the Prime Minister’s Programme for Prevention and Control of Diabetes Mellitus (2024–2029), which addresses the obesity–diabetes continuum via awareness campaigns, behavior change, and early screening.
Secretary of the Ministry of National Health Services, Hamed Yaqoob, described obesity as a complex, chronic disease shaped by biological, environmental, and social factors. He reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to reducing stigma, expanding access to person-centered care, and improving public understanding of obesity.
Danish Ambassador Maja Mortensen welcomed the dialogue, stressing that partnerships promoting knowledge-sharing and innovation are essential for sustainable, evidence-based health solutions.
The event concluded with a renewed commitment to strengthen prevention strategies, enhance policy measures, and foster multi-sectoral collaboration. Officials underscored that tackling obesity is not only a health priority but also an economic imperative for Pakistan’s future.
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