KARACHI: Vice President of the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), Iram Ghafoor, revealed that over 24,000 children and youth under the age of 25 in Pakistan are currently living with Type 1 diabetes—a condition that can become life-threatening without access to insulin.
To address this, 27 dedicated clinics have been set up across the country to provide free treatment.
Talking to the health reporters, Iram Ghafoor said that these clinics are part of the “Changing Diabetes in Children” program, which is active in 32 countries worldwide.
In Pakistan, more than 3,300 children have already been registered under the program. These children receive free insulin, glucometers, pen devices, needles, and testing strips.
Iram Ghafoor, who was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes herself at the age of 14, shared her personal journey:
"I turned my diagnosis into strength, not weakness. I truly understand the pain children go through—that’s why this project was entrusted to me," she said.
She added that the program initially aimed to establish 40 clinics by 2025, with 27 already operational, including seven in Sindh and nine in Punjab.
The project's timeline has now been extended to 2030, with a new target of reaching 6,000 children.
She urged parents to be alert to symptoms such as repeated abdominal pain, frequent urination, excessive thirst, vomiting, mouth odor, or unusual fatigue, and to consult a doctor promptly.
She stressed that Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease and early symptoms should not be ignored.
The event was attended by senior journalists including Karachi Press Club President Fazil Jamili and others.
Iram Ghafoor was presented with a traditional Ajrak and a shield as tokens of appreciation.
Iram Ghafoor holds the distinction of being the first Pakistani and first woman to be elected as Vice President of the International Diabetes Federation. In a contest involving over 270 associations worldwide, she won with 112 votes.
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