KARACHI: Patron-in-Chief of Kashif Iqbal Thalassaemia Centre, S M Irfan Muneer, while addressing a ceremony held at FPCCI in connection with World Thalassaemia Day, said that thalassaemia is a hereditary disease and prevention is only possible through timely awareness, testing, and precautionary measures.
He said that thousands of children in Pakistan are suffering from this disease and require regular blood transfusions and expensive treatment; therefore, every segment of society must come forward to support these children.
The ceremony was also addressed by Deputy Patron-in-Chief Hanif Gohar, Senator Abdul Haseeb Khan, former Governor of Sindh Moinuddin Haider, Sindh Government Secretary Dr Durshahwar, Muhammad Iqbal, and others. FPCCI Senior Vice President Saqib Fayyaz Magoon, former President Zubair Tufail, Khalid Tawab, Bilal Mulla, Ali Haider, and others were also present.
S M Irfan Muneer stated that promoting thalassaemia screening among the younger generation is the need of the hour so that future generations can be protected from this disease.
He further said that philanthropists, welfare organisations, and medical centers are playing an important role in saving the lives of thalassaemia patients; however, a comprehensive government-level strategy is essential for the complete eradication of the disease
He appealed to the public to actively participate in blood donation drives and awareness campaigns related to thalassaemia so that affected children can be provided with a better, safer, and brighter future.
The speakers paid tribute to Senator Abdul Haseeb Khan for securing Senate approval of legislation requiring blood tests for couples intending to marry in order to prevent thalassaemia.
Hanif Gohar said that Senator Abdul Haseeb Khan had successfully passed the law through the Senate, and “we salute his efforts.” He added that the private sector in the country is establishing thalassaemia centers on a self-help basis and treating patients, while the support of the Sindh government is also commendable. In particular, Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah and Chief Secretary Sindh Asif Hyder Shah facilitated the release of funds upon their request.
President of the Thalassaemia Federation of Pakistan and former Governor of Sindh, Lt Gen Moinuddin Haider (retd) said that public awareness, screening, and timely diagnosis are extremely important for the prevention of thalassaemia.
The speakers noted that World Thalassaemia Day is observed globally every year on May 8 to raise awareness about the disease, encourage patients, and highlight the importance of timely diagnosis.
The event reflected emotions of hope, compassion, and humanity for children affected by thalassaemia. The ceremony also featured the launch of “Super Kashif.”
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026
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