Imran Khan’s Eye Health: Personal Physician Raises Serious Concerns

Dr Asim Yousaf, personal physician to PTI founder Imran Khan and chief medical officer at Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital, has expressed serious concern over the former prime minister’s eye condition, warning that it may be linked to an underlying medical issue.

In a video statement, Dr Yousaf said that for several days rumours circulated nationally and internationally regarding Imran Khan’s eye health. He confirmed that government sources acknowledged the issue, and that six days ago, Imran was taken to a government hospital in Islamabad for treatment.

However, Dr Yousaf noted that no official details have been shared about the nature of the condition, the tests conducted, or the treatment provided.

“We do not know what exactly happened to his eye, what tests were conducted, or what treatment was given. This is a serious condition requiring specialist care,” he said.

He stressed that retinal diseases of this type require sub-specialty expertise, which is not available at PIMS. Such eye conditions are often linked to high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, autoimmune disorders, or blood clotting problems, and require careful investigation and treatment.

Dr Yousaf also described his attempt to examine Imran at Adiala Jail alongside retinal specialist Dr Khurram Azam from Lahore:

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  They arrived at the jail at 11 PM, but were not allowed to see him.

  
  


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  He clarified that social media reports of mistreatment or standing in the cold for hours were false.

  
  

He emphasized that retinal conditions can persist for years, require repeated treatments, and regular follow-ups in a hospital setting.

Dr Yousaf urged authorities to ensure transparency regarding Imran Khan’s health, including:

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  Clear communication of diagnosis

  
  


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  Details of tests conducted

  
  


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  Treatment provided

  
  


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  Follow-up plan

  
  

“Every Pakistani has the right to high-quality medical care, and this right should be available to Imran Khan Sahab. I personally urge the government to allow me to be involved in his ongoing care,” he added.

Imran Khan has been imprisoned since August 2023 at Adiala Jail, serving a £190 million corruption case sentence, and faces pending Anti-Terrorism Act trials related to the May 9, 2023 protests.