“Religious scholars have great respect within Pakistan society and they are listened to more than anyone else.”
Masudur Rehman Kian
Health experts in Pakistan have called on religious scholars to raise awareness about the harmful effects of unhealthy food.
At a conference held by the Pakistan National Heart Association (Panah), the organisations president, retired Maj Gen Masudur Rehman Kian claimed the growing burden of diet-related noncommunicable diseases such as diabetes was hurting the development of Pakistan. He urged religious leaders to help raise awareness about the harmful effects of unhealthy food and drinks during Ramadan and beyond.
“Unhealthy diet is the top reason for diseases and deaths in Pakistan. A number of people die every minute due to diabetes, heart diseases, cancers and other chronic diseases. These precious lives could be saved by adopting healthier choices in diet”, he said.
The International Diabetes Federation’s Atlas was referred to that shows Pakistan ranked the third highest globally with 33 million people living with diabetes in 2021.
Mr Kian described religious scholars as having great respect within Pakistan society and that they are listened to more than anyone else.
“Sugary drinks are among the major contributors to these diseases. Ulema (scholars) should help in raising awareness among public about the harms of sugary drinks and other unhealthy food choices during Friday prayers and community gatherings,” he said.
Advocacy Action: Does your health department liaise with religious leaders to share information and advice that would be helpful to their followers? Could your press for them to do so?