Doctors warn of post-festival health risks
Every year, doctors report a surge in patients suffering from stomach-related ailments such as diarrhea, cholera, and abdominal pain during Eidul Azha. These cases are largely attributed to excessive meat consumption, spicy food, and unsafe food handling practices.
"We see a big increase in the number of patients with gastrointestinal issues starting from the first day of Eidul Azha. Most cases are linked to overeating and the consumption of heavily spiced foods," Dr Imran Sarwar, Emergency In-Charge at Civil Hospital, said while talking to The Express Tribune.
He further stated that prolonged power outages and extreme summer temperatures can spoil frozen meat, potentially leading to the development of toxins.
"Improperly stored meat becomes a health hazard," Dr Sarwar added. "It is essential to use polythene bags or airtight containers to store meat in the freezer. Plastic bags should be avoided, as they do not prevent freezer gases from affecting the meat."
Doctors recommend moderation in both portion sizes and cooking methods. Adults should limit their daily meat intake to 100-150 grams, while children should consume no more than 70 grams. Those with chronic health conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol, or uric acid issues are advised to be particularly cautious.
"Goat meat is generally lighter and easier to digest than beef," Dr Sarwar said. "However, it should still be cooked with mild spices and accompanied by yogurt, fresh salads, fruits, and vegetables to aid digestion."
Doctors urge the public to exercise dietary restraint and adopt safe food storage practices to prevent illness and ensure a healthy, enjoyable Eid celebration.
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I just could not believe as he neither mentioned the occasion nor expressed any urgency during the entire process of setting up the treatment facility for my mother. What was further more unbelievable was the calm, with which his family waited in the car for three hours. In all my years in medicine, I have never encountered anyone with clinical skills or compassion comparable to Dr. Camer Vellani. There are many more examples of his clinical brilliance and humility towards the patients and their families, but I believe the above are enough to affirm that he has been an incomparable medical professional in Pakistan; and may be one of the few in the world. I have always felt very blessed that my clinical training and understanding of patient care was by someone as extraordinary as Dr. Camer Vellani – a Messiah. Dr. Arjumand Faisel MBBS, MCPS, MPH, FCPS is a leading Public Health Specialist in Pakistan. He graduated in 1979 from Dow Medical College and has served at the Aga Khan University, USAID/Islamabad and WHO/EMRO. He has been a Consultant for the World Bank, ADB, LSHTM and many other INGOs and NGOs for public health programmes.
