International Thalassaemia Day 2026 Observed at FJMU Lahore on 7th May marks International Thalassaemia Day, observed worldwide to raise awareness among the general public, healthcare providers, and policymakers about improving the lives and well-being of thalassaemia patients.
To commemorate the day, the Punjab Thalassaemia and Other Genetic Disorders Prevention & Research Institute (PTGD), Lahore, in collaboration with the Thalassaemia Federation of Pakistan and the Thalassaemia Society of Pakistan, organized an Awareness Seminar at Fatima Jinnah Medical University (FJMU), Lahore.
The theme of this year’s seminar was “Hidden No More: Finding the Undiagnosed and Supporting the Unseen.” The seminar aimed to raise awareness about thalassaemia, including its types—transfusion-dependent and non-transfusion-dependent—as well as prenatal diagnosis and preventive strategies. A tableau presented by thalassaemia-affected children added a meaningful and emotional dimension to the program.
The Vice Chancellor of FJMU, Prof. Dr. Khalid Masood Gondal, welcomed the distinguished guests. In his address, he thanked the honorable Prof Dr. Shamsa Humayun, Prof. Dr. Javaria Manan, Prof. Dr. Noureen Akmal, Dr. Tariq Mian, Prof. Dr. Masuma Ghazanfar, and Prof. Dr. Bilquis Shabbir for attending the seminar. He also congratulated Prof. Dr. Masuma Ghazanfar for successfully organizing the event.
Prof. Gondal appreciated the efforts of PTGD in providing state-of-the-art screening and prevention services for thalassaemia. He expressed pride that FJMU hosts one of the largest thalassaemia prevention programs in the world. Prof. Dr Shamsa Humayun, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest.
Prof. Dr. Masuma Ghazanfar, Director General of PTGD, delivered a comprehensive briefing on the institute’s services. She highlighted preventive strategies and outlined key steps taken by the Government of Pakistan to combat thalassaemia. She also mentioned that PTGD provides free prevention services across all 36 districts of Punjab. She thanked the Vice Chancellor, distinguished guests, and all participants for their support and presence.
Prof. Dr. Jovaria Mannan spoke about transfusion-dependent and non-transfusion-dependent thalassaemia, highlighting the challenges faced by patients at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, requested [Prof Dr Bilqees to arrange beds for adult thalassemic patients.
Prof. Dr. Noureen Akmal, former Principal of FJMU, presented an informative session on prenatal diagnosis.
Prof. Dr. Shamsa Humayun, Ex-Vice Chancellor of Fatima Jinnah Medical University, thanked the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Dr. Jovaria Manan, President of the Thalassaemia Society of Pakistan, Prof. Dr. Noureen Akmal, Prof. Dr. Bilqees, Prof. Dr. Ayesha, Prof. Dr. Masuma Ghazanfar, Dr. Tariq Mian, members of the Thalassaemia Society of Pakistan, doctors, nurses, paramedical staff, thalassaemia families, and all the participants.
She stated, “At FJMU, we feel at home. This is where the Punjab Thalassaemia Prevention Program found its footing, thanks to the vision of pioneers like Professor Dr. Yasmeen Raashid and the dedication of PTGD team.”
Reflecting on the program’s journey, she shared that the initiative began from scratch in 2012, when she served as its first Project Director at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, Lahore. She discussed the challenges faced during the establishment of the project and highlighted the signing of an MoU with the Punjab Information Technology Board, through which the first screening line was established.
Dr. Tariq Mian, President of the Pakistan Academy of Family Physicians (PAFP), highly appreciated the contributions and leadership of Prof. Dr. Khalid Masood Gondal and Prof. Dr. Shamsa Humayun. During his remarks, he expressed concern that Pakistan still lags behind many countries in key healthcare indicators, noting that Pakistan and Afghanistan remain among the few countries where polio has not yet been completely eradicated.
Despite these challenges, Dr. Tariq Mian paid tribute to Fatima Jinnah Medical University for its remarkable achievements and stated that the university’s thalassaemia prevention program is regarded among the best in Asia. He also appreciated the dedication of all individuals associated with the institute
Prof. Dr. Bilqees Shabbir presented the vote of thanks and acknowledged all participants and contributors who made the ceremony a success. She especially recognized Prof. Dr. Masuma Ghazanfar for organizing the impactful event and appreciated Prof. Dr. Shamsa Humayun for sharing the inspiring journey behind the establishment of the program. She noted that the project, initially housed at King Edward, has now evolved into a remarkable and visible achievement.
She also acknowledged the continuous contribution of Prof. Dr. Javaria Manan and assured that efforts are being made to fulfill the growing needs and expectations of adult thalassaemia patients.
At the conclusion of the seminar, shields were distributed among the distinguished guests in recognition of their valuable contributions. The event concluded with an awareness walk to reaffirm collective commitment toward thalassaemia prevention, early diagnosis, and patient support.
