December 6, 2024– 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.
Islamabad, November 14, 2024 – On World Diabetes Day, Heartfile teamed with PYCA, CPDi, PANAH, health alliances, associations and activists for a high‑impact demonstration at Press Club Islamabad. The group called for tougher taxation on sugar‑sweetened beverages and mandatory front‑of‑pack warning labels on ultra‑processed products to curb diabetes and NCDs. Speakers highlighted the dual benefit of these policies—deterring unhealthy consumption while mobilizing much‑needed government revenue. Experts stressed that targeted levies can bolster state coffers without raising prices on daily essentials like food and energy, a clear win–win for public health and the exchequer.
November 5,6, 2024: at the 14th Public Health Conference held at the Health Services Academy Islamabad, Heartfile and PANAH co-hosted a scientific session spotlighting the critical role of front-of-pack warning labels and the impact of sugary drinks on Pakistan’s burgeoning diabetes epidemic. Expert presenters unpacked robust evidence linking sugar-sweetened beverages to rising NCD rates, underscoring the need for policy interventions. Attendees—including public-health practitioners, researchers and policy-makers—engaged in dynamic dialogue on regulatory strategies. The session concluded with a unified call to integrate FOPWL and sugar-tax measures into national health policy to curb diabetes incidence.
On October 11, 2024 in Bhurban, Heartfile and leading civil-society health organizations convened a media session to advocate for mandatory front-of-pack warning labels on unhealthy processed products (UPPs). A diverse assembly of print and broadcast journalists, digital-TV platforms and social-media influencers was sensitized to the urgent public-health case for FOPWL on UPPs, as expert speakers presented evidence linking clear, on-package warnings to reduced consumption and improved consumer awareness. Participants pledged to amplify the call for regulatory action, leveraging their networks to drive policy change.
Sep 2024: Heartfile has developed a new report on Nutrient Profile Models (NPM) and Front-of-Pack Warning Labels (FOPWL), highlighting their importance in promoting healthier food environments. The report draws on indigenous research carried out in collaboration with national and international experts, and is intended to catalyze policy discussion and action towards the adoption of effective FOPWL regulations in Pakistan. It reflects global best practices to support public health and address the growing burden of non-communicable diseases.
The report can be accessed here