Islamabad: — Pakistan National Heart Association (PANAH) hosted a powerful National Youth Conference, bringing together young advocates from universities across the country who led impactful social media campaigns urging the government to impose higher taxes on Sugar-Sweetened Beverages (SSBs). The guests includes Maj Gen ® Masud Ur Rehman Kiani, Munawar Hussain health and nutrition Policy Advisor, Senior executive vice president PANAH Dr. Abdul Qayyum Awan, Additional executive vice president PANAH Col. Dr. Shakeel Ahmed Mirza, Vice president PANAH Ms. Afshan Tehseen Bajwa, Mr. Sana Ullah Ghumman General Secretary PANAH, Representative from Universities, Academia, Health experts, Civil Society and Media.
Maj. Gen Masud Ur Rehman Kiani presented alarming data on the epidemic of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) in Pakistan. He share that according to recent findings NCDs account for 58% of all deaths in Pakistan. SSBs are among the leading contributors to NCDs like obesity and Type 2 diabetes, particularly among low-income populations and youth. With over 33 million adults now living with the disease. Obesity rates among youth have surged, with nearly 1 in 3 urban school-going children classified as overweight or obese.
Gen. Masud suggested that that taxing sugary drinks is one of the most effective and evidence-based strategies to reduce consumption. Government should take immediate action by imposing higher taxes on sugary drinks to reduce the burden of NCDs.
The conference concluded with a vibrant award ceremony, celebrating the top-performing youth advocates and university teams for their outstanding commitment, creativity, and impact during the campaign. Awards were distributed by president PANAH.
Dr. Abdul Qayyum Awan, Senior Executive Vice President, closed the session by affirming PANAH’s continued commitment to advocate for health taxes and NCD prevention. “This movement is not just about policy—it’s about saving lives. And our youth have shown they are ready to lead.”
Youth passed a resolution unanimously that the government shall increase taxes on sweet drinks instead of fuels
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.
