Pakistan's Silent Epidemic: The Growing burden of cardiovascular disease and Diabetes

Abstract

In Pakistan, health concerns are overshadowed by infectious disease outbreaks like polio and dengue, while chronic conditions like heart disease and diabetes pose a greater threat. These preventable illnesses claim more lives than epidemics, yet the health system prioritizes acute infections. Common consanguineous marriages contribute to genetic risks for these diseases. Despite increased healthcare spending, focus remains on hospitalization over prevention. The lack of a national cardiovascular program results in late diagnoses. Effective strategies could include taxing harmful products, community screenings, and integrating non-communicable disease services into primary care.