Lifestyle changes driving diabetes spike

PakistanAugust 16, 2026Less than a minute readPreviously misunderstood and often misdiagnosed, Type 5 diabetes – also known as malnutrition-related diabetes or Maturity Onset Diabetes of the Young (MODY) – disproportionately affects lean adolescents and young adults, especially in low and middle-income countries across Asia and Africa.PHOTO: PEXELS
ISLAMABAD:

Experts have expressed concern over the rising burden of diabetes in Pakistan, attributing it to lifestyle changes and low physical activity, while acknowledging government efforts to improve prevention and healthcare response

Speaking to the media, diabetes expert Dr Maryum Aziz warned that its rapid rise is strongly linked to unhealthy lifestyle habits, including poor diet, physical inactivity, and stress

She said the growing burden of diabetes has placed the country among the top three nations globally, with nearly 33 million people currently affected, adding that the situation demands urgent attention as cases continue to rise across all age groups

She urged people to adopt healthier lifestyles, including regular physical activity and balanced nutrition, and emphasized that early screening and awareness are essential to control the spread of the disease and reduce long-term health complications

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