KARACHI: Sindh Health Minister Dr. Azra Fazal Pechuho inaugurated a free thalassemia screening program at Jinnah Sindh Medical University (JSMU) and unveiled the third unit of the Thalassemia Center at Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre (JPMC). The landmark initiative, spearheaded by Prof. Dr. Nighat Shah, Head of Ward 9B (Gynae) at JPMC, aims to reduce the burden of thalassemia in Sindh through early detection, awareness, and accessible testing.
“With one simple premarital test, we can prevent generations of suffering,” said Dr. Azra Pechuho. “Thalassemia is a preventable tragedy, and we are making screening accessible to every couple in Sindh.”
In addition to the screening initiative, Dr. Pechuho announced a series of transformative healthcare measures:
- The IVF facility at Gazdarabad will now be managed by JPMC Ward 9B, offering fertility treatments at minimal or no cost.
- A Maternal ICU in Azam Basti will be established to enhance emergency obstetric care and reduce maternal mortality.
- Expansion of subspecialty services in Ward 9B, enabling comprehensive treatment of complex maternal health issues locally.
- Prof. Dr. Amjad Siraj Memon, Vice Chancellor of JSMU, underscored the university's commitment to holistic healthcare, announcing the launch of:
- A Department for Autistic Children, and
- A Behavioral Science Institute in collaboration with JPMC.
“These measures reflect our dedication to healthcare that spans from prevention to advanced treatment,” he stated.
Prof. Nighat Shah highlighted the exponential growth of Ward 9B, which has expanded from 12 to 60 specialists, now capable of managing advanced cases that previously required referrals abroad.
The event was attended by key medical leaders, including:
- Dr. Tariq Mehmood, Head of Radiology, JPMC
- Dr. Shahid Rasool, Executive Director, JPMC
This multi-faceted initiative positions Sindh at the forefront of preventive genetic care and maternal health services in Pakistan, reinforcing the province’s commitment to inclusive, accessible, and high-impact healthcare.
