12th International Diabetes and Ramadan Conference 2026 held in Lahore
LAHORE: The 12th International Diabetes and Ramadan Conference 2026, the first of its kind in Lahore, was held recently, with the objective of providing evidence based, safe and practical medical guidance for people with diabetes who observe fasting during the holy month of Ramadan.
The conference was organized under the auspices of King Edward Medical University, Lahore and carried the theme “Diabetes and Ramadan updates 2026.” Renowned diabetes specialists, senior physicians, researchers and healthcare professionals from Pakistan and abroad participated to share scientific research, international guidelines and clinical experiences related to diabetes management during fasting.
The primary focus of the conference was to improve patient safety and quality of care by translating research into practical clinical strategies. Speakers emphasized that structured medical advice before and during Ramadan can significantly reduce the risk of complications among people living with diabetes.
Former provincial minister for health and President of the Pakistan Society of Internal Medicine Professor Javed Akram attended as chief guest. Guests of honour included Professor Khalid Masood Gondal, Vice Chancellor of Fatima Jinnah Medical University and President of the College of Physicians and Surgeons Pakistan, and Professor Mahmood Ayaz, Vice Chancellor of King Edward Medical University and a distinguished robotic surgeon. The guests described the conference as timely and highly significant and stressed the importance of continuity in research and training on diabetes and Ramadan.
The conference was led by Professor Yaqoob Ahmedani, Chairman of the Organizing Committee and Head of the Ramadan and Hajj Study Group Pakistan, with Professor M. Imran Hasan Khan, Head of West Medical Ward at King Edward Medical University, serving as Co Chairman. Other key organizers included Professor Muhammad Imran, Head of Endocrinology and Metabolic Ward, Professor Israr ul Haq Toor, Head of North Medical Ward, and Professor Jamal Zafar, Chief Executive Officer and Head of Medical Complex RW-ADA. Academic and administrative contributions by Professor Uzma Malik, Professor Samina Saeed and conference secretary Sanobia Yousaf were also acknowledged.
The inaugural session began with recitation of the holy quran, followed by Naat-e-Rasool (PBUH) and the national anthem. Opening remarks were delivered by the chairman of the organizing committee, while the Chairman of the Diabetes and Ramadan International Alliance addressed participants on global standards of diabetes care during fasting.
In his address, Professor Yaqoob Ahmedani described diabetes as a rapidly growing public health challenge in Pakistan and highlighted the importance of scientifically structured guidance for patients during ramadan. He said international academic forums strengthen the professional capacity of physicians and improve patient outcomes at the national level.
Professor Javed Akram stated that the core aim of the conference was to equip clinicians with updated research, practical guidance and international experience so that patients with diabetes can fast safely while minimizing complications.
Professor Mahmood Ayaz noted that diabetes is emerging as a major public health issue in Pakistan and that accurate, scientific and safe guidance during ramadan is urgently needed. He said international conferences align clinicians with global research and guidelines, leading to improved quality of life for patients.
Professor Khalid Masood Gondal emphasized that sharing research findings, clinical experience and case studies supports individualized patient care and informed clinical decision making, adding that such academic activities strengthen the overall healthcare system.
Renowned diabetologist Dr. Abdul Basit from Indus Hospital Karachi, recently recognized by Stanford University among the world’s top two percent scientists, highlighted the importance of medication adjustment, balanced dietary planning and comprehensive pre-Ramadan education for people with diabetes who intend to fast. He warned that ignoring these measures can expose patients to serious health risks and said such conferences promote evidence based care while projecting pakistan’s responsible role on the global health stage.
At the conclusion of the conference, Professor Imran Hasan Khan presented a vote of thanks to the chief guest, guests of honour and participants. An exhibition showcasing diabetes related medicines, medical devices and patient awareness material will also be inaugurated. Organizers said the conference will serve as a vital academic platform with a direct impact on safer and improved care for people with diabetes.
Stay informed, stay ahead!
CLICK HERE TO JOIN Medical News Pakistan on WhatsApp for latest stories, expert tips, health updates, and the medical research straight to your phone.