The Balochistan government has announced a major decision to prevent the spread of thalassemia. Authorities will make the Hb Electrophoresis test mandatory before marriage.
Secretary Health and Chairman of the Balochistan Blood Transfusion Authority, Mujeeb-ur-Rehman Panizai, shared the decision on Saturday. He said the measure became necessary because cousin marriages in Balochistan’s tribal society are driving an increase in thalassemia cases.
Panizai explained that the Health Department and provincial government had jointly decided to introduce the mandatory test. If needed, amendments to the already approved Act will be made to ensure legal backing for the new policy.
He added that laboratory facilities for the test will be expanded across the province. Public awareness campaigns will also be launched to inform citizens about the dangers of thalassemia and the importance of early testing.
The secretary stressed that this decision is a preventive measure aimed at saving future generations from a lifelong genetic disorder. Thalassemia patients require frequent blood transfusions, placing heavy emotional and financial burdens on families.
Panizai urged citizens to cooperate with the new initiative, calling it a step toward protecting public health. He emphasized that prevention is more effective and affordable than treatment.
The decision marks a significant shift in provincial health policy. Officials believe that making pre-marriage thalassemia screening mandatory will help reduce the number of new cases in Balochistan. Implementation details and legal procedures are expected to follow in the coming months.
