The Burden of Non-communicable Diseases (NCDs) and Food Governance
Pakistan is facing a significant health crisis with the rising burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, cancers and chronic lung diseases. These conditions account for around 65% of premature deaths in the country, with more than 31 million individuals living with diabetes and an additional 10 million pre-diabetic. Hypertension affects approximately 42 million people, and obesity rates are climbing, particularly among the younger generation.
However, this growing epidemic is preventable. Join us for a discussion where we will explore how dietary modifications, lifestyle changes and robust food policies can curb the prevalence of NCDs. Discover the critical role of effective food governance in promoting public health and creating a healthier future for Pakistan.
About the Key Speakers:
- Dr. Tahira Siddique holds a Ph.D. in Food Technology and brings over 10 years of professional experience in both the private and public sectors. She is currently working with the Islamabad Food Authority, where she is instrumental in establishing the foundations for improved food governance.
- Prof. Dr. Colonel (Rtd.) Shakeel Ahmed Mirza is a seasoned consultant physician with a keen interest in public health advocacy.
- Dr. Yusra Gillani is a passionate disability rights advocate, healthcare professional, and assistive technology specialist. She was awarded the Khadija tul Kubra Award in 2021 by the Women Parliamentary Caucus and UNFPA for her outstanding contributions.
- Dr. Lubna Naz is Director at CBER-IBA, Karachi. She has research interests in health economics, food policy and environment.
- Zubair Faisal Abbasi is a public policy advisor with the Centre for Governance and Public Accountability. He has a particular interest in food governance and policies aimed at controlling non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Pakistan. He will be moderating the session.
This session is free and open to all. Just visit the venue to attend it.
The Black Hole
Plot 5H, Street 100, G-11/3, Islamabad.
Click here for Google Maps Location