Wasim Hanif

Professor Wasim Hanif OBE is an internationally renowned expert in Diabetes and Endocrinology who sees private patients at The Harborne Hospital. His extensive expertise, developed through specialist training and an MD from the University of Birmingham, is firmly rooted in the Birmingham community, where he has served as a Consultant Physician in Diabetes and Endocrinology at University Hospitals Birmingham. In recognition of his outstanding contributions to medicine, he was appointed Honorary Professor of Medicine in 2013.

In the King's Birthday Honours List 2026, Professor Hanif was awarded an OBE (Officer of the Order of the British Empire) for his significant contributions to healthcare. The official citation read:

Professor Wasim Hanif, Clinical Advisor Diabetes UK and Professor of Diabetes and Endocrinology, University Hospitals Birmingham. For services to diabetes and health inequalities.

Professor Hanif's influence extends far beyond clinical practice. He has held a number of prominent leadership and advisory roles, including serving as a Trustee of Diabetes UK, a member of NICE Health Technology Assessment (HTA) committees and the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), and Chair of the Diabetes Working Group at the South Asian Health Foundation (SAHF), President Elect of British Medical Association, Non-Executive Director of BMJ and Past Chair of Association for the study of Obesity UK. Recognised internationally for his expertise, he has advised the UK Government, the European Parliament and Commonwealth Ministers on matters relating to diabetes, obesity and health inequalities. He has also chaired guideline development groups for leading organisations, including the International Diabetes Federation.

His clinical and academic interests span diabetes, obesity and ethnic health, with a particular focus on addressing health inequalities. Working closely with national organisations, professional societies and academic partners, Professor Hanif conducts research into diabetic kidney disease, diabetes prevention, diabetes management during Ramadan, obesity, ethnicity and healthcare disparities. His participation in major international multi-centre clinical trials, including the establishment of UKADS, reflects his commitment to advancing knowledge and improving outcomes for patients worldwide.

Professor Hanif is also a respected voice in healthcare policy and parliamentary affairs. He provides advice on diabetes and ethnic health issues, contributes to the Parliamentary and Stakeholder Diabetes Think Tank, and continues to play a leading role in shaping national healthcare strategy. In addition, he serves on the Board of Directors of Apnee Sehat, a UK-based social enterprise dedicated to developing innovative approaches to healthcare delivery.

A prolific author and educator, Professor Hanif has produced numerous publications, toolkits and practical guides focused on diabetes and ethnic health. His landmark 2009 report highlighting research gaps affecting South Asians living with diabetes in the UK was launched at the Houses of Parliament and helped shape subsequent discussions around health inequalities. He has also made substantial contributions to NICE through advisory and committee roles, particularly in Health Technology Appraisals, where his expertise has informed policy and guidance on obesity, diabetes prevention and emerging treatments.

Today, Professor Hanif is widely recognised as a leader in diabetes care, clinical research and health equity, combining clinical excellence, academic achievement and national policy influence to improve outcomes for diverse populations in the UK and internationally.