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LAHORE, Apr 12 (APP):Punjab Health Minister Khawaja Salman Rafique has emphasized the urgent need for effective measures to prevent the spread of thalassemia in Pakistan.
He was presiding over a high-level meeting at the Specialized Health Care and Medical Education Department on Saturday, where the Punjab Thalassemia Prevention Act 2025 was thoroughly reviewed.
The health minister announced that the proposed legislation will soon be presented in the Punjab Assembly for approval. “Iran and other Muslim countries have implemented long-term strategies to combat thalassemia. We must also launch a strong campaign to protect our future generations,” he said.
The meeting was attended by key stakeholders, including Member Punjab Assembly and Chairman Public Accounts Committee Syed Ali Haider Gilani, who highlighted the emotional and physical suffering endured by children with thalassemia and their families. He also noted that the School Education Department has been mobilized to incorporate thalassemia awareness into the curriculum.
Parliamentary Secretary for Health Rushda Lodhi stressed the importance of joint efforts. “All stakeholders must come together to make Pakistan thalassemia-free,” she said, adding that the Punjab government has developed a comprehensive counseling program to raise awareness.
Chairperson of the Punjab Women Protection Authority and MPA Hina Pervaiz Butt called the proposed legislation a landmark step. “The passage of this Act will be a milestone, and the Punjab government remains committed to eliminating this preventable disease from society,” she stated.
Senior officials including Additional Secretary Technical Dr. Muhammad Waseem, Director Punjab Blood Transfusion Authority Professor Shabnam, and DG Thalassemia Prevention Professor Yasmin Ehsan were also present at the meeting.