Thalassaemia: Punjab CM for timely diagnosis, prevention

LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has paid tribute to blood donors helping children suffering from thalassaemia and expressed solidarity with patients and their families. She stressed the importance of timely diagnosis and prevention to combat thalassaemia, saying that pre-marital blood screening could help prevent the disease, while blood donations could give a new lease of life to affected children. In her special message on “World Thalassaemia Day,” the chief minister said creating public awareness regarding prevention, early diagnosis and treatment of thalassaemia was essential. She added that the Punjab government was taking significant and revolutionary measures for the prevention and treatment of the disease. She said the “Punjab Thalassaemia Prevention Act 2025” had been passed by the Punjab Assembly to help prevent thalassaemia. She further stated that thalassaemia testing had been made mandatory for students at the time of admission to educational institutions. The CM also said that bone marrow transplant treatment was being provided free of cost to children suffering from thalassaemia. She appealed for a widespread awareness campaign on thalassaemia and reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting patients and their families. Moreover, the CM paid tribute to volunteers and all stakeholders associated with the Red Crescent movement on the occasion of World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day. In her message, the chief minister congratulated partners of the humanitarian movement across Pakistan and the world for their selfless services. She said this year’s theme, “United in Humanity”, encouraged people towards unity and reaffirmed faith in humanity. “The theme highlights the enduring importance of compassion, empathy and solidarity,” she added. Maryam Nawaz said organisations like the Pakistan Red Crescent Society played an important role during climate change-related emergencies and natural disasters. She said the government was committed to establishing a strong, organised and comprehensive system for resolving public issues, adding that practical measures were being taken to ensure protection of vulnerable segments of society. The chief minister said social volunteers were playing a key frontline role in the service of humanity and reaffirmed the resolve to work for building a safe and strong Pakistan. Copyright Business Recorder, 2026

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