ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s President Dr. Arif Alvi emphasized the importance of adopting preventive measures to curb cardiovascular diseases. He emphasized the impact of dietary and lifestyle changes in preventing non-communicable diseases such as heart ailments and strokes.
Speaking via video link at the 12th biennial conference of the Pakistan Society of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgeons in Peshawar, President Alvi underscored that a preventive approach not only reduces the risk of diseases but also alleviates the burden on the national healthcare system.
Addressing the increasing prevalence of cardiovascular diseases in young people, President Alvi stressed the financial strain imposed by prolonged treatments and surgeries. He asserted that a shift towards a healthy diet, abandonment of sedentary lifestyles, and cessation of smoking could contribute positively to controlling cardiac diseases.
Recalling the nation’s efforts in effectively managing the COVID-19 pandemic, President Alvi urged a similar dedication to prioritizing the prevention of cardiovascular diseases. He emphasized the need for investment in the training and professional development of healthcare practitioners specializing in cardiovascular and thoracic care. The president also highlighted the importance of telemedicine and technology, particularly for patients in remote areas facing challenges in accessing healthcare facilities.
President Expresses Concern Over Malnutrition and Obesity in Pakistan
President Alvi expressed concern over the coexistence of malnutrition and obesity in the country, emphasizing the state’s responsibility to raise awareness about the importance of a healthy diet over consuming junk food. In addition to curative medicine, he urged medical practitioners to play a societal role by promoting preventive care and encouraging the public to adopt regular exercise routines.
Touching upon mental health, President Alvi revealed that approximately 24 percent of the population suffers from mental stress, with 60-80 percent of higher education students grappling with the issue. He proposed the establishment of a helpline utilizing artificial intelligence to provide assistance to those in need.
CEO of Peshawar Institute of Cardiology, Prof. Dr. Shahkar Ahmed Shah, highlighted the hospital’s role in providing state-of-the-art healthcare services and achieving ISO certification. He emphasized that graduates from the institute would play a crucial role in the healthcare system of the province and the entire country. The conference was attended by President of Pakistan Association of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgeons (PACVTS), Prof. Dr. Aftab Yunus, Patron 12th Biennial PACVTS, Prof. Dr. Mohammad Rehman, and various medical practitioners.
