KMU hosts seminar on Thalassemia Prevention in Pakistan

A remarkable stride in the battle against thalassemia in Pakistan was taken today at the Seminar and Consultative Meeting on Thalassemia Prevention in Pakistan. Under the enchanting theme of "Be Aware, Share Care; Strengthening Education to Bridge the Thalassemia Care Gap," this momentous event unfolded at the captivating Khyber Medical University in Hayatabad, Peshawar. The joint efforts of Khyber Medical University (KMU), Dosti Welfare Organization, National Commission for Human Development (NCHD), and KP Health Thalassemia Control Program orchestrated this extraordinary gathering.

Director General Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Health Department was the chief guest of the event. Distinguished participants, graced by the presence of the esteemed vice chancellor of Khyber Medical University, Prof. Dr. Zia Ul Haq Anwar Iqbal, the Director of Operations at NCHD, Dr. Asghar Khan, the Project Director of KP Thalassemia Control Program, and Irfan Khan, the Health Coordinator of Dosti Welfare Organization, came together to deliberate on strategic measures for thalassemia prevention in Pakistan.

Dr. Inayat Shah, Director of the Institute of Basic Medical Sciences welcomed all distinguished guests and participants. The eminent hematologist, Prof. Dr. Shah Taj Khan, captivated the audience as the keynote speaker, delivering an insightful presentation on thalassemia prevention in Pakistan. Her emphasis was on Mass Education and Awareness, Public Screening, Genetic Counseling, and Prenatal Diagnosis left a lasting impact. Dr. Gulab Fatima Rani, Assistant Professor at the Institute of Pathology and Diagnostic Medicine, moderated the open panel discussion. The attendees also had the privilege of engaging with esteemed panelists Dr. Asghar Khan from KP Health, Dr. Khalid Khan from the HMC Pathology Department, and Dr. Yasar Yousafzai, the Director of PHRL, who shared their invaluable perspectives on thalassemia prevention and addressed inquiries from the audience.

In acknowledgment of the collaborative endeavors and unwavering dedication to thalassemia prevention, Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Zia Ul Haq bestowed shields and certificates upon the panelists and organizers. In his closing remarks, he expressed his unwavering commitment to contribute further to the cause and emphasized the significance of collective action in making Pakistan thalassemia-free. 

This seminar and consultative meeting mark a pivotal milestone in the ongoing battle against thalassemia in Pakistan. By bringing together key stakeholders and experts, this event has fostered a platform for profound dialogue, knowledge-sharing, and synchronized efforts toward a future where thalassemia is eradicated from our nation.

Following the seminar, a consultative meeting was held under the chairmanship of Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Zia Ul Haq at the VC committee room.This momentous meeting centered on thalassemia prevention and the journey toward a Thalassemia-Free Pakistan, with the participation of influential stakeholders and government representatives. Additionally, the CEO of Genetic Resources Center Major General (R) Prof. Dr. Suhaib Ahmad from Rawalpindi, and Deputy Director of Punjab Thalassemia Control Program Dr. Yasmin Ehsan attended the meeting virtually, providing their valuable insights. They emphasized the need for immediate attention to prevention.