Pakistan Experts Push Mandatory Thalassemia Screening Before Marriage
The Thalassemia blood screening proposal received strong support during the National Thalassemia Conference in Pakistan, where health experts urged the government to make pre-marital blood tests mandatory in the Nikah Nama. The conference, organized by the Omair Sana Foundation, brought together doctors, lawmakers, and healthcare professionals from across the country. Experts said preventive screening can help reduce the number of children born with thalassemia every year. In addition, participants stressed the importance of awareness campaigns and stronger healthcare policies to control the disease nationwide.
Experts Recommend Preventive Screening
During the conference, Dr. Saqib Ansari highlighted the importance of compulsory blood screening before marriage. He explained that testing couples before marriage can help identify thalassemia risks early. As a result, families can make informed decisions and reduce the spread of the disease.
Dr. Ansari also referred to countries such as Italy, where authorities successfully controlled thalassemia through mandatory screening programs. According to health experts, Pakistan faces a major health challenge because nearly 5,000 to 8,000 children are born with thalassemia every year.
Specialists at the event also emphasized the need for early diagnosis, regular blood donations, and better access to CBC and blood screening tests in rural areas. Moreover, experts called for stronger legislation to support preventive healthcare measures.
Lawmakers Demand Awareness and Legislation
Senator Rubina Qaimkhani urged educational institutions and media organizations to increase awareness about thalassemia and its prevention. Meanwhile, Sindh Assembly member Farhan Farooq demanded strict implementation of mandatory blood screening before marriage, especially in rural communities.
Sindh Minister Nasir Hussain Shah said awareness regarding thalassemia has improved in recent years. Furthermore, he reaffirmed the provincial government’s commitment to eliminating the disease. Officials also confirmed that thalassemia centers have been established near NADRA offices in Karachi to improve healthcare access.
The conference concluded with the launch of a book presenting a national strategy for eliminating thalassemia in Pakistan.
