Good news for individuals struggling with obesity
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Dr Ahmed Uzair Qureshi, a professor at King Edward Medical University Lahore, has highlighted obesity as a leading cause of various health problems in Pakistan.
In an exclusive interview with 24NewsHD, Dr Qureshi emphasised that being overweight is the primary reason for metabolic syndrome, which leads to serious complications such as cardiovascular diseases and type 2 diabetes.
The head of the West Surgical Department at Mayo Hospital pointed out that obesity is driven by numerous factors, including unhealthy eating habits and lifestyle changes linked to urbanisation and the increasing consumption of fast food.
“Traditional Pakistani cuisine, which is often high in fat and sugar, further contributes to the obesity epidemic,” Dr Qureshi said, adding that obesity also increases the risk of hypertension, heart disease, cholesterol, stroke, and arthritis.
Referring to a World Health Organisation study, Dr Qureshi stated that one in four Pakistanis is overweight, urging people to monitor their metabolic health closely.
He explained metabolism's critical role in the body, converting food into energy and supporting vital functions like muscle growth, oxygen absorption, and immune system development.
“A weak metabolism can result in fatigue, weight gain, high cholesterol, and even mental health issues such as depression,” he warned, He stressed that people with significant abdominal fat or a family history of diabetes are at greater risk of metabolic syndrome. Waist length of 40 inches is an alarm sign for patients at risk to develop metabolic syndrome.
The head of the West Surgical Department at Mayo Hospital provided practical tips to prevent metabolic syndrome, recommending daily physical activity, such as brisk walking, and a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, and high-fiber grains. He also urged people to avoid smoking and manage stress to combat obesity.
On the medical front, Dr Qureshi revealed that his team has successfully performed over five modern laparoscopic surgeries to treat obesity.
The procedure, known as sleeve gastrectomy, reshapes the stomach and reduces food intake, leading to significant weight loss.
“These surgeries offer new hope for individuals struggling with severe obesity, improving their overall health and quality of life.”
Dr Ahmad graduated from Allama Iqbal Medical College in 2002. He completed his specialization in surgery at Mayo Hospital and Services Hospital. He got his training in robotic and laparoscopic surgery from Yonsei University South Korea and Kuwait.
In 2021, he was appointed as full professor of surgery at King Edward Medical University Lahore.
He became in-charge of the historical Amritsar Ward of Mayo Hospital and he considers it an honour to head a unit where he was trained 20 years ago.