Islamabad, November 18, 2025 — Heartfile took part in the 15th International Public Health Conference titled “The Next Generation’s Shield: A One Health Approach to Vaccination, Adolescent Health, and Climate Change”, held at the Health Services Academy (HSA) in Islamabad. Inaugurated by the Federal Minister for Health, Mr. Mustafa Kamal, the conference convened national and international experts to explore integrated approaches for improving the health and well-being of future generations.
As part of the conference, Heartfile hosted a dedicated scientific session titled “Banning Partially Hydrogenated Oils, Protecting Generations: Policy, Nutrition and the Future of Public Health”. The session emphasized the urgent need for a comprehensive and timely ban on partially hydrogenated oils (PHOs) in Pakistan, underscoring their association with industrially produced trans fatty Acids (iTFAs) and the resulting implications for cardiovascular health.
The session drew active participation from a diverse group of stakeholders, including civil society organizations such as SAMAR, academic researchers, public health professionals, and former government officials. Key speakers included Mr. Munawar Hussain, a renowned public health researcher; Dr. Saba Amjad, public health researcher and CEO of Heartfile; Mr. Sanaullah Ghumman, veteran public health advocate and Secretary General of the Pakistan National Heart Association (PANAH); Ms. Areebah Shahid, Executive Director of the Pakistan Youth Change Advocates (PYCA); and Dr. Tahira Siddiqui, Deputy Director, ICT Food Authority. Speakers highlighted the need for evidence-based policymaking, stronger regulatory mechanisms, and multi-sectoral coordination to eradicate iTFAs and strengthen population-level health outcomes. In addition, participants presented robust evidence from Pakistan’s context, showcased cutting-edge global research and successful international case studies, and outlined a clear policy reform pathway. They also highlighted how strategically deployed advocacy can drive meaningful public health outcomes—effectively conveying the urgency of the issue and the need for coordinated collective policy action.
Participants reaffirmed the essential role of sustained advocacy, scientific engagement, and collaborative action in accelerating Pakistan’s transition toward a PHO-free food environment. Heartfile reiterated its commitment to supporting national policy efforts and supporting public health measures that protect current and future generations.
The session concluded with a unified call for decisive national action to address emerging public health challenges and advance a healthier, more resilient Pakistan.
