KARACHI: Health experts at a seminar warned that Pakistan has become the world`s leading nation in terms of diabetes prevalence, while calling for public awareness on lifestyle-based solutions to counter the epidemic.

Organised by Hamdard University, the event featured guest lectures by Prof Dr Zuhair Yusuf from the Aga Khan University, Prof Dr Arshad Mehmood representing the Salim Habib University and Sabeen Farugi from the State University of New York.

They said that while Pakistan was previously among the top three countries for diabetes prevalence, recent studies suggest it now likely occupies the top spot.

Prof Mehmood cited studies showing that limiting daily eating hours and prolonging fasting periodsenhances glucose tolerance, insulin sensitivity, and blood pressure control.

`As Muslims, we already embrace fasting for spiritual wellbeing. Now, science confirms its physiological benefits,` he said.

He referenced a trial in which pre-diabetic participants restricted their meals to a seven-hour window (7am-2pm). `After five weeks, those fasting for 17 hours daily exhibited significant improvements, including reduced insulin resistance,` he explained.

`Pakistan`s crisis stems not from lack of food, but from excessive consumption,` Prof Mehmood added in response to questions.

Ms Farugi underscored the interplay between emotional and physical health, stating: `Managing stress and fostering relationships are as vital as diet and exercise.

Comparing urban Pakistanis to the Hunza community, she noted: `Their longevity stems from naturaldiets, active routines, and hydration through waterrich foods practices that can even replace medication.

She shared her own experience of discontinuing medication 11 years ago despite prior metabolic conditions.

She also stressed the value of discipline: `Hunza residents typically dine before 7pm and consume unprocessed, farm-to-table foods.

Prof Dr Raza-ur-Rehman, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, said the British government has been advocating a policy framework for better health for all.

`Under this policy, people are encouraged to connect more with other people, connect more with nature, give to charity, adopt active lifestyles, and continue learning new skills. Once people start doing this, their health improves considerably so much so that their life expectancy increases by up to eight years.

Later, HU Chancellor Sadia Rashid awarded the Best Teacher and Best Researcher certificates to Dr Shiraz Siddiqui and Dr Syma Ghyas, respectively.

HU Vice Chancellor Prof Syed Shabib-ul-Hasan was also in attendance.