Medical experts have raised alarms over the rapidly increasing cases of heart and brain diseases in Pakistan, attributing the rise primarily to unhealthy lifestyles and high cholesterol levels. According to the experts, more than 85% of the Pakistani population has elevated levels of bad cholesterol, leading to the narrowing of arteries that supply blood to the heart and brain. This arterial constriction is contributing to a surge in life-threatening conditions such as heart attacks and strokes.
Speaking at a press conference held at the Karachi Press Club, members of the newly formed Lipid Forum of Pakistan highlighted growing health concerns, especially among children and youth. They stated that the excessive consumption of fast food and high-fat diets has led to early signs of arterial narrowing even in younger individuals. The imbalance caused by reduced good cholesterol (HDL) and increased bad cholesterol (LDL) has significantly heightened the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
The health experts emphasized the importance of a balanced diet and regular physical activity, particularly daily walks, for maintaining a healthy heart. They urged parents to keep their children away from junk food and encourage more physical activities. Walking, they noted, improves blood circulation, reduces body fat, flushes out toxins, and alleviates mental stress.
The forum members—Prof. Abdul Rasheed, Prof. Nawaz Lashari, Dr. Pir Ghulam Nabi Shah Chelani, Prof. Jameel Ahmed, and Prof. Kamal Yousuf—stressed that good cholesterol levels should be maintained at 50% or higher in the body to ensure healthy arteries and prevent serious health conditions.
