ISLAMABAD — The Pakistan National Heart Association (PANAH) organized a high-impact public health awareness session at the Capital University of Science and Technology (CUST) to educate youth on the dangers of ultra-processed products (UPPs). The initiative aims to mobilize students as public health advocates to promote Front-of-Pack Warning Labels (FOPWL) and curb the alarming rise of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) across Pakistan.
The event brought together students, faculty members, and youth advocates to address the escalating national crisis of diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, obesity, and other diet-related health conditions.
Mandatory Warning Labels Vital to Countering Health Risks
Addressing the gathering, Sana Ullah Ghumman, Secretary General of PANAH, warned participants about the severe health consequences linked to poor dietary habits and heavy reliance on ultra-processed foods.
He explained that implementing clear, mandatory warning labels on food packaging allows consumers—especially young people—to instantly identify items containing excessive sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats.
"Public awareness and effective government policies must go hand in hand to reduce the growing burden of NCDs," emphasized Ghumman.
He urged students to take on active roles as public health ambassadors by demanding evidence-based policy changes to build healthier food environments.
Mobilizing Youth to Drive Community-Wide Lifestyle Changes
Highlighting the vital role of educational institutions, Ghulam Abbas, Vice President of PANAH, underscored that universities serve as premier platforms for training future leaders to combat dietary hazards.
Key actionable steps encouraged during the session include:
Spreading Awareness: Educating peers, families, and local communities about the hidden risks in packaged foods.
Policy Support: Actively backing PANAH's advocacy for legally mandated Front-of-Pack Warning Labels.
Healthy Choices: Adopting nutritional, whole-food alternatives over commercially processed options.
Abbas emphasized that active youth engagement is essential to stopping preventable diet-related illnesses before they reach epidemic levels.
Strengthening Academic and Civil Society Partnerships
Speaking on behalf of the university administration, Professor X lauded PANAH’s persistent advocacy and community outreach efforts. He emphasized the necessity of involving young adults in preventive healthcare strategies and pledged CUST's continued support for joint public health projects.
The session concluded with a shared pledge to expand youth-led awareness initiatives nationwide, reinforcing PANAH's mission to foster a healthier and better-informed generation across Pakistan.
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