Heart disease is becoming a growing health concern in Pakistan, with cardiovascular illnesses reportedly accounting for around 29 per cent of deaths nationwide, according to figures attributed to the World Health Organisation (WHO).
The report states that approximately 400,000 people die from heart-related illnesses in Pakistan every year. It also highlights concerns about the increasing prevalence of cardiovascular problems among younger people, with experts urging the public to adopt healthier lifestyles and take preventive measures.
Although numerous public and private hospitals provide treatment for cardiac patients, residents say people from across Punjab continue to travel to the Punjab Institute of Cardiology (PIC) in Lahore for treatment. They have called for the establishment of more specialised cardiac hospitals in other districts to improve access to healthcare.
Medical experts have warned that people under the age of 30 are also facing an increasing risk of heart disease. Smoking, unhealthy diets rich in fats, obesity and high blood pressure are among the major risk factors associated with cardiovascular illnesses.
Experts have also noted that heart disease affects people who have never smoked, indicating that factors beyond tobacco use may contribute to the growing burden of cardiovascular conditions.
Air pollution linked to rising heart disease cases
Renowned Pakistani cardiologist Professor Dr Shehryar has highlighted air pollution as another significant factor contributing to heart disease. According to him, exposure to polluted air can damage the lungs and contribute to cardiovascular problems. He said the health risks become more serious as pollution levels rise, particularly in densely populated urban areas.
Experts have expressed concern over air quality in major cities, including Lahore, Karachi and Faisalabad, where pollution levels frequently exceed internationally recommended standards. They have stressed that the problem extends beyond the annual smog season, although pollution becomes particularly severe during those months.
Experts question effectiveness of anti-smog measures
Environmental experts have criticised the effectiveness of measures taken to control smog, claiming that the Punjab government spent more than Rs20 billion on anti-smog initiatives last year without achieving satisfactory results.
Some experts have argued that resources should be directed towards more effective measures to reduce air pollution. They have also questioned the suitability of smog guns for Pakistan, saying that environmental and geographical conditions differ from those in China, where such equipment has been used.
Experts have called for a substantial reduction in traffic congestion, particularly in Lahore, suggesting that cutting traffic pressure could help improve air quality.
They pointed to experiments involving smart lockdowns on selected major roads in Lahore, saying reduced traffic in those areas was accompanied by lower smog levels. They believe similar measures could help control pollution if implemented effectively.
Experts urge plantation of native trees
Environmental specialists have also stressed the importance of protecting existing trees and expanding plantation drives using native species. They have recommended planting indigenous varieties such as mulberry, neem, sohanjna, dharek and bakain, arguing that these trees are better suited to local conditions than widely imported ornamental varieties.
Experts have urged citizens to plant trees wherever space is available, including rooftops, residential buildings, government offices, schools, colleges and other public facilities. They have also suggested growing suitable plants in large pots on rooftops where ground space is limited.
At the same time, they have called for stricter measures to prevent unnecessary tree cutting by government departments and private individuals.
Call for responsible tree trimming
Experts have raised concerns about tree-cutting campaigns conducted by the Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO) and other electricity distribution companies to clear branches near power lines.
They have called on the companies to trim only the branches that pose a genuine risk to electricity infrastructure rather than cutting down entire trees unnecessarily.
They have also proposed stronger seasonal restrictions on tree felling, particularly during autumn, to protect urban greenery and support efforts to improve air quality.
Experts say reducing vehicle emissions, improving air quality, protecting existing trees and expanding native plantation could contribute to a healthier environment and help address the wider public-health challenges associated with pollution.