More than 34 million adults living with diabetes in Pakistan

LAHORE  –  The Dilawar Hussain Foundation (DHF) hosted a delegation from the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) at its Ferozepur Road centre, giving the visiting leadership an opportunity to learn about the Foundation’s work in diabetes treatment, prevention, education, awareness and community outreach. The visit comes as Pakistan faces one of the world’s highest diabetes burdens, with 31.4 per cent of the adult population living with the disease. DHF became a full member of the IDF in 2025, joining the Federation’s global network of organisations working to improve diabetes prevention, care and advocacy. “With more than 34 million adults living with diabetes in Pakistan, accessible care is an urgent need. Its services include medical consultation and endocrinology, nutritional counselling, diabetes education, ophthalmology, foot care, pharmacy and laboratory services, complemented by awareness, educationaland screening programs. The Foundation currently operates centres in Gulberg and Garhi Shahu in Lahore and in Kasur. Its Kasur centre extends services to communities in the city and surrounding villages, while its Lahore centres provide free and subsidized care to patients, particularly those from underserved communities. To date, DHF has impacted the lives of more than 1.5 million people, with 96% of patients receiving free or subsidised treatment. The Foundation’s continuity of care is reflected in the fact that 90% of patients return for follow-up visits, while 58% patients showing improved HbA1c and glucose control. “Diabetes care requires more than a consultation. The engagement also highlighted the importance of connecting local experience with global diabetes expertise. The IDF currently represents 264 member organizations across 163 countries and territories. Globally, an estimated 589 million adults aged 20–79 were living with diabetes in 2024, with that number projected to reach 853 million by 2050. “The diabetes challenge is global, but effective action begins in communities. DHF’s integrated approach reflects the kind of locally rooted care that can make a meaningful,measurable difference. I am impressed to see that there is capacity building towards a holistic diabetes care in Pakistan”, Prof. Dr. PeterSchwarz, President, International Diabetes Federation. With more than four in ten adults living with diabetes globally estimated to be undiagnosed, the IDF continues to emphasize prevention, early diagnosis, access to care and education as critical components of the global response. The visit concluded with discussions on potential areas of collaboration, including diabetes awareness, education, advocacy, knowledge exchange and strengthening access to care.

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