17 April 2025– A crucial National Policy Dialogue took place on December 6, 2024, at Kohsaar Block, Islamabad Secretariat. The forum facilitated discussions among key stakeholders on pressing national issues. Deliberations aimed to shape effective policy interventions for national development. The outcomes of this dialogue are expected to contribute significantly to future policy formulation.
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In a powerful display of solidarity,
Islamabad, 17 April 2025 – In a powerful display of solidarity, PANAH, Heartfile, and over ten other health-focused civil society organizations (CSOs) convened a joint press conference at RAMADA, Islamabad, on January 21st. The coalition urgently called for the imposition of taxes on Ultra-Processed Products (UPPs). This united front aims to curb the consumption of unhealthy foods and generate revenue for public health initiatives. The demand underscores the growing concern over the impact of UPPs on the nation’s health.
Heartfile and PANAH
Islamabad, 17 April 2025 – Heartfile and PANAH held a significant think tank meeting on January 9th at RAMADA, Islamabad. The session brought together experts to deliberate on pressing public health issues. The Strategic discussions aimed to formulate actionable policy recommendations for improved health outcomes. The outcomes of this pivotal meeting are anticipated to inform future advocacy efforts.
Serena Hotel, Quetta
Quetta, 17 April 2025 – A significant workshop addressing the critical issue of industrially produced trans-fatty acids (iTFAs) and the ban on partially hydrogenated oils (PHOs) was successfully held at Serena Hotel, Quetta, on January 15, 2025. The event aimed to raise awareness among key stakeholders about the detrimental health impacts of iTFAs. Discussions focused on effective strategies for the implementation and enforcement of the PHO ban. This initiative underscores ongoing efforts to combat NCDs through dietary policy interventions.
On World Obesity Day
Islamabad, March 4, 2025 – On World Obesity Day, Heartfile joined PYCA, CPDI, PANAH, health alliances and activists at a Ramada Islamabad press conference to champion higher taxes on sugar‑sweetened beverages and mandatory Front of Pack Warning Labels on ultra‑processed products Presenters pointed to alarming national data—over half of Pakistanis are overweight or obese, fuelling soaring diabetes and NCD rates. Experts asserted that SSB taxation and warning labels offer a proven, cost‑effective “win‑win” — improving public health while generating crucial state revenue .They stressed that targeted levies can bolster government coffers without hiking the cost of daily essentials like food and energy, safeguarding both livelihoods and health.
Evidence Dissemination
Evidence Dissemination event 24 Feb 2025 RAMADA, Islamabad
“Research Reveals Front-of-Pack Warning Labels Could Ease Pakistan’s NCD Crisis”
Islamabad: February 24,2025: Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are a major challenge for Pakistan’s economy, placing a huge strain on the healthcare system and causing a large number of premature deaths. The underlying causes of NCDs in Pakistan are largely preventable, with unbalanced diets being a major cause. These diseases include cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and cancer, not only affecting individuals but also having a large economic impact due to rising medical treatment costs and reduced productivity. This was stated today at a research dissemination event organized by Heartfile and Pakistan National Heart Association (PANAH) at a local hotel. Heartfile CEO Dr. Saba Amjad and Panah Secretary General Sanaullah Ghuman welcomed the guests. Research Head Ammar Rashid presented the research.
The research revealed that front-of-pack warning labels can play a role in reducing the burden of NCDs.
Among the most promising strategies adopted globally to combat NCDs are taxation and introduction of front-of-pack warning labels (FOWPL) on unhealthy food products. The idea behind these measures is to discourage unhealthy eating habits and to make unhealthy foods more expensive through taxes and to provide consumers with clear information about the nutritional content of products, especially those high in sugar, salt and fat. Research conducted by Heartfile and PANAH has examined how these measures are already working in different parts of the world. The results highlight the positive impact of these policies in other countries, where taxes on sugary drinks and unhealthy foods have led to reduced consumption and improved public health outcomes. Heartfile has played a key role in raising awareness of these measures, and in building support with communities, policymakers and the general public to adopt them in Pakistan.
To take the next step towards implementing these policies in Pakistan, Heartfile and Panah organized a launch event today to formally present their research. The event was attended by representatives from all food authorities, including PSQCA, and several other organizations. These stakeholders not only appreciated the research but also expressed their strong support for introducing such policies in Pakistan. They stressed the importance of taking proactive measures to address the growing threat of NCDs and emphasized that adopting global best practices, such as implementing taxes on unhealthy foods and clear labelling, can significantly improve the health outcomes of the Pakistani population.
Islamabad, February 21, 2025
Islamabad, February 21, 2025 — In a press conference attended by major media outlets at Ramada Hotel, eleven leading health sector civil society organizations, including Heartfile, urged the government to impose higher taxes on ultra-processed products (UPPs) and sugary beverages. Speakers presented compelling global evidence linking these products to the surge in non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes and heart disease in Pakistan. The coalition emphasized that aligning fiscal policies with public health objectives is essential to mitigate the escalating NCD burden
Islamabad, February 18, 2025
Islamabad, February 18, 2025 – The Subcommittee of the Women’s Parliamentary Caucus on General Women’s Health convened at the Conference Room of the Women Parliamentary Caucus, Parliament House, to strategize targeted interventions for women’s health challenges. The session united women legislators, senior MoNHSRC officials and civil society advocates to assess legislative gaps, prioritize maternal and adolescent care, and draft recommendations for holistic preventive services. Participants underscored the imperative of integrated health systems and gender‑responsive budgeting to ensure equitable access to screening, counseling and essential treatments. Members resolved to prepare a bill proposing free cervical cancer screening and expanded mental health support in public hospitals, marking a decisive step towards strengthening women’s health policy.
Video IECs
Video IECs
Consultation Meetings
Islamabad, January 27, 2025 – Building on the momentum from the January 6 meeting, a follow-up consultation at Ramada Islamabad convened a diverse panel of health experts, food policy specialists, public health officials, and academic leaders. Participants from government agencies, research institutions, and civil society advanced the roadmap for Front of Pack Warning Labels on ultra-processed foods high in sugar, salt, and transfats. The session culminated in the finalization and concurrence of a robust policy brief designed to tackle dietary risk factors and curb the rising burden of non-communicable diseases.
Heartfile Conducts Second Tobacco Awareness Session for Adolescents
Islamabad | January 22, 2025 – Continuing its series of health talks, Heartfile conducted its second Tobacco Awareness Session at the Superior Group of Colleges, Chak Shahzad Campus, to educate adolescents on the dangers of smokeless tobacco (SLT) and promote informed lifestyle choices. The first session in the series was held on October 22, 2024, at a private school in Islamabad.
Over 50 students from the 12th grade, along with three faculty and staff members, participated in the interactive session, which included expert-led discussion, a Q&A segment, and educational health talks. Heartfile also donated printed awareness materials to the college library to further support tobacco education efforts.
These initiatives play a crucial role in equipping young individuals with the knowledge to make healthier decisions and contribute to a tobacco-free future.