TOBA TEK SINGH: A Collaborative Care of Diabetes (CCD) Centre has been inaugurated in Faisalabad, offering medical convenience to millions of people in and around the city.

Located on Susan Road, the centre is the first of its kind in Pakistan, providing advanced diagnostics using artificial intelligence.

An official stated that over 15 diseases, including diabetes, can be diagnosed using the latest AI-powered camera technology.

The inauguration was led by Dr Maqsood Ahmed, a Pakistani-American philanthropist. Several doctors and medical professionals attended the ceremony.

Dr Maqsood said joint efforts were crucial to control the disease, as the diabetes rate in Pakistan exceeds 30 per cent, with around 80 million people affected.

The centre aims to provide treatment and preventive guidance, helping patients avoid complications from the disease. He said the financial burden of diabetes treatment was huge, adding that Pakistan’s healthcare budget was insufficient to manage it.

The centre also utilises AI and information technology, featuring a machine imported from the US capable of diagnosing multiple diseases, including diabetes, through a camera.

Prof Dr Imtiaz Ahmed Dogar, head of Mental Health at Faisalabad Medical University, spoke about the link between diabetes and psychology.

He stressed that providing psychological support to young patients could significantly aid in controlling the disease, enhancing their motivation and willpower to seek treatment.

Published in Dawn, September 25th, 2024