Pakistan ranked among the top 10 countries with the highest burden of childhood obesity
Islamabad, National Nutrition Survey of Pakistan, nearly 18% of children under five are overweight or obese — a figure that continues to rise. The widespread availability and consumption of ultra-processed foods high in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats are major contributors to this epidemic. Pakistan is ranked among the top 10 countries with the highest burden of childhood obesity. Ultra-processed foods are often falsely marketed as convenient and nutritious, misleading parents and children alike. Pakistan National Heart Association (PANAH) is organizing a special awareness event themed “The Role of Mothers in Preventing Diet-Related Diseases in Children”, highlighting the critical role mothers play in safeguarding their children from poor nutrition and its life-threatening consequences. This event was organized in commemoration of World Mother’s Day.
Dr. Shazia, renowned cardiologist, highlight the role of mother in preventing NCDs. she shared with the audiences how consumption of ultra-processed food products effect the health of a child which are one of the leading cause of childhood obesity, diabetes, and other non-communicable diseases. Mothers, health professionals, and educators will gather to discuss strategies to curb unhealthy eating habits and promote a culture of nutritious, home-cooked meals .Also Dr. Shazia Fatima Malik passed a resolution in which all mothers pledged to adopt a healthy diet and stop using unhealthy food for the betterment of their families’ health.
Sana Ullah Ghumman, General Secretary PANAH, urges families, especially mothers, to rethink their purchase choices and prioritize natural, whole foods over Ultra Processed products. Childhood obesity is not just a cosmetic concern — it is a serious medical condition that significantly increases the risk of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) at an early age. Obese children are far more likely to develop type 2 diabetes, hypertension, fatty liver disease, joint problems, and even early signs of cardiovascular disease. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), obese children are five times more likely to become obese adults, putting them at lifelong risk of heart disease, stroke, and certain cancers. He emphasize the urgent need for public health policies to reduce the consumption if ultra-processed products.
Dr. Wajiha said that “Mothers are the gatekeepers of their children’s health. By avoiding ultra-processed foods and encouraging healthy eating patterns early in life, they can prevent long-term health issues,”
Other health experts and participants share their concern on the issue. They shared that In Pakistan, the situation is alarming — studies indicate that over 18% of children under the age of 5 are either overweight or obese, while the rate in school-aged children is even higher. Without immediate intervention, this epidemic threatens to place an unbearable burden on Pakistan’s already strained healthcare system and compromise the future health of an entire generation. “Preventing obesity starts at home — and mothers are our first line of defense,”
Sohail Majeed is a Special Correspondent at The Diplomatic Insight. He has twelve plus years of experience in journalism & reporting. He covers International Affairs, Diplomacy, UN, Sports, Climate Change, Economy, Technology, and Health.
