University of Swabi Joins PANAH Campaign for Mandatory Front-of-Pack Warning Labels
Report: ANI
SWABI — The Pakistan National Heart Association (PANAH) organized a youth engagement and awareness session at the University of Swabi to highlight the growing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Pakistan and mobilize students in support of mandatory Front-of-Pack Warning Labels (FOPWLs) on unhealthy ultra-processed food products.
Addressing the participants, PANAH General Secretary Sana Ullah Ghumman delivered a detailed presentation on the rising cases of diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular diseases and other non-communicable diseases in Pakistan, which account for approximately 60 per cent of deaths in the country.
He explained that excessive consumption of ultra-processed foods containing high levels of sugar, salt and unhealthy fats is contributing to the public health crisis, particularly among young people.
Ghumman emphasized that mandatory Front-of-Pack Warning Labels would help consumers identify products containing excessive sugar, salt and unhealthy fats, enabling them to make informed food choices. He urged students to raise their voices in support of the policy and play an active role in promoting a healthier Pakistan.
Vice Chancellor of the University of Swabi, Prof. Dr. Muhammad Nasim Ullah Qureshi, appreciated PANAH's initiative and said young people had the potential to bring meaningful change to society. He encouraged students to adopt healthier lifestyles, prefer natural and nutritious foods, and create awareness about preventable diseases.
Dr. Ruidar Ali Shah, Director ORIC, welcomed the PANAH delegation and appreciated its efforts to engage academic institutions in public health advocacy. He also expressed interest in strengthening future collaboration between the University of Swabi and PANAH.
PANAH reaffirmed its commitment to engaging universities and young people across Pakistan, emphasizing that mandatory warning labels are essential to ensuring consumers' right to know and protecting future generations from the harmful effects of unhealthy foods.
