Although the number of health issues in Pakistan is alarmingly high, the absence of healthcare systems is far more worrisome. A nation's population is more prone to sickness when there is a poor healthcare system in place. Although some diseases are common everywhere, modern governments have the systems and resources to fight them. In other countries, the disease leads to enhanced research and healthcare practices. Pakistan, however, is left with the disease and its rapid spread alone due to a lack of resources and effective management. The fact that Pakistan is one of only three nations experiencing continuous poliovirus transmission highlights the dearth of efficient healthcare policies.
The following is a list of Pakistan's primary health issues:
Malaria
One of the main health issues in Pakistan is malaria. The disease is common in both urban and rural regions, although it is more prevalent in the provinces of Sindh and Balochistan. According to estimates from the World Health Organization (WHO), in Pakistan, approximately 3.4 million suspected cases of malaria were reported between January and August 2022 as compared to 2.6 million between 2021 and 2022. Laboratory testing has identified over 170,000 instances, of which 77% are attributable to Plasmodium vivax and 23% to Falciparum malaria, which is related to the most severe and lethal cases. With a variety of initiatives, including the distribution of bed nets, the use of insecticides, and the provision of diagnostic and therapeutic services, the government of Pakistan is attempting to control and eradicate malaria in the nation in collaboration with foreign organizations.
Tuberculosis
The infectious disease tuberculosis (TB), which damages the lungs, is spread via coughing and sneezing. According to World Health Organization (WHO), it ranks fifth among B high-burden nations worldwide and is responsible for 61% of the TB burden in the WHO Eastern Mediterranean Area, with an estimated 510 000 new TB cases appearing each year and roughly 15 000 developing treatment resistance TB cases each year.. One of the prevalent health problems in Pakistan that could have long-term implications is tuberculosis. Coughing, fever, tiredness, chills, and appetite loss are some of the indications and symptoms of tuberculosis.
Dengue Fever
Dengue fever was only discovered in 2010 but has already affected numerous locals. According to World Health Organization (WHO), a total of 25 932 confirmed dengue cases and 62 deaths (CFR 0.25%) were reported in Pakistan between 1 January and 27 September 2022, with 74% of these cases coming in the month of September alone. A special type of mosquito bite causes dengue fever, which manifests as a fever, lethargy, and excruciating headache. Depending on the disease's stage, the intensity of symptoms varies, and if they are not treated in a timely manner, they can be fatal.
Diabetes
More than 7 million people in Pakistan currently have diabetes, making it the country with the highest diabetes prevalence in all of South Asia. The number of diabetic patients in Pakistan is rising significantly due to a lack of nourishing food and mindfulness. This condition is being underestimated by specialists and even residents.
Cancer
One of the main causes of death in Pakistan is cancer, another terrible disease. Breast cancer and lung cancer are the two main cancer kinds that are prevalent in Pakistan. Every year, more than 40,000 women in Pakistan pass away from breast cancer. Cancer is increasing alarmingly in Pakistan as a result of a lack of education and adequate medical services. On the other hand, lung cancer is primarily brought on by smoking because Pakistan is South Asia's biggest tobacco consumer.
Hepatitis
Pakistan has a very high incidence of all types of hepatitis. Hepatitis A and E are widespread in Pakistan as a result of inadequate sanitation, lack of clean water supply, and improper handling of sewage. Pakistan is also rated in the zone of moderate hepatitis B and C prevalence. Also, the current political climate, socioeconomic circumstances, and healthcare delivery system instability make it difficult to stop the spread of the hepatitis virus and its sequelae.
Diarrhea
In Pakistan, diarrhea and other watery illnesses are major public health concerns. They are a major contributor to morbidity and mortality in the nation, particularly among children under five, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Poor sanitation and hygiene, a lack of clean drinking water, and insufficient access to healthcare are the main contributors to diarrhea in Pakistan.
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Disease in Pakistan