Data deficit fuelling health crisis

A forum of experts observing World TB Day last month lamented that Pakistan continues to lack indigenous data on diseases—the data that is critical to influence policy decisions and track progress, particularly in the fight against tuberculosis (TB). TB and other infectious and contagious diseases remain growing concerns, as reported in this newspaper and echoed by specialists who stress that locally generated data is vital for understanding disease epidemiology, trends, and overall burden. There is no doubt that reliable data empowers policymakers, healthcare professionals, and communities alike to take informed decisions regarding disease strategies, resource allocation, and programme implementation.

It is nonetheless commendable that medical experts, despite systemic hurdles, have consistently sounded the alarm on the nation’s infectious disease burden. Relying on their own field studies and, often, on overwhelming internationally disseminated estimates, they have kept the spotlight on these pressing issues.

Pakistan has long been burdened with endemic diseases, including preventable ones like tuberculosis, hepatitis B and C, and typhoid, alongside persistent threats from vector-borne illnesses such as malaria and dengue. Parallel efforts have been under way for years to eliminate polio and HIV; however, these campaigns have yet to reach a point to bring practical results. It is disheartening that, even today, we lack assertive, timely released, and consolidated national or provincial data on the full spectrum of diseases.

It is particularly troubling that there is no unified, real-time data on the number of people newly acquiring HIV each year. Similarly, despite countless vows and appeals, our relentless struggle against paralytic polio has yet to culminate in eradication. Alarmingly, no consensus data exists on the number of children missed by polio field workers during repeated preventive campaigns—an omission that clearly poses a policy and programmatic concern.

When it comes to disseminating local data and infectious disease trends to the public, it is widely acknowledged that doing so could prove immensely beneficial in bolstering surveillance and prevention efforts. Accessible data can help detect outbreaks early, enabling swift response and containment measures. Simultaneously, informing the public about disease trends can enhance awareness and encourage preventive behaviours, such as vaccination, hygienic practices, and other safety measures.

It is indisputable that publicly available data facilitates research, analysis, and monitoring of infectious and contagious disease trends, ultimately strengthening surveillance systems. We have no option but to recognise the value of indigenous data and rely on it as the foundation for all policy decisions. Without transparent data and evidence-based actions, the country and its provinces remain at grave risk of a worsening dual burden of non-communicable and infectious diseases.

Now is the time to abandon our fragmented approach to disease data. The country’s existing disease profile demands timely, data-driven policies and implementation—not outdated manoeuvers and policy gimmicks. The preparation and sharing of accurate data among all stakeholders, especially within the health and education sectors, will help reframe national priorities and direct investments where they are most needed—without further delay. The absence of reliable, timely, indigenous data is crippling Pakistan’s ability to manage, prevent, and respond to its entire disease burden—both infectious and non-communicable.

Editorial/Social Track, Karachi (25.4.2025)