News Desk:
In a compelling move towards safeguarding public health, the Centre for Peace and Development Initiatives (CPDI) has issued a pressing appeal to top officials in Balochistan, urging immediate action to curb the escalating prevalence of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) in Pakistan. Shockingly, recent health statistics reveal that a staggering 60% of deaths in the country are attributed to NCDs, including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, obesity, and hypertension.
CPDI Urges CS Balochistan To Address This Health Crisis
In a heartfelt letter addressed to the Chief Secretary Balochistan, Secretary Food Balochistan, and key provincial officers, the non-partisan civil society organization highlights the dire need for concrete measures to address this health crisis. CPDI emphasizes the urgency of implementing policies that ban unhealthy food and beverages from public procurements, official meetings, and functions. The three dietary risk factors under scrutiny are the excessive use of unhealthy oils and fats, added sugar, and high sodium content in food items.
Diabetes Affecting 33 Million People In Pakistan
With diabetes affecting approximately 33 million people in Pakistan and cardiovascular diseases on the rise, CPDI underscores the importance of proactive official policies and regulations. The organization urges the provincial government to collaborate with the Pakistan Standards and Quality Control Authority (PSQCA) to expedite the formulation of mandatory and enforceable standards for all food items, regulating harmful content such as trans-fatty acids (TFAs) to not exceed 2%.
CPDI Calls For Restricting The Availability Of Unhealthy Food
CPDI’s appeal extends to restricting the availability of unhealthy food in schools, hospitals, and public parks, eliminating government subsidies on harmful products like sugars and banaspati ghee. Moreover, the organization advocates for the implementation of public awareness campaigns to educate consumers about dietary risk factors.
As the call for urgent action echoes through the corridors of power in Balochistan, the eyes of the nation turn towards potential measures that could not only save lives but also alleviate the financial burden and reduction in life years caused by NCDs. The time for change is now, as CPDI champions a healthier future for Pakistan.
