NADRA opens thalassemia, hepatitis diagnostic desks 

KARACHI: Thalassemia and Hepatitis diagnostic desks have been opened by NADRA Sindh at its Korangi No 4 and Safoora centers in Karachi, in partnership with the provincial government.

These diagnostic desks were inaugurated at the NADRA Korangi No. 4 center, which now features a dedicated Thalassemia test desk.

The event was also attended by NADRA Sindh Director General Ahtesham Shahid, Blood Transfusion Secretary Dr. Dur-e-naz Jamal, and Muhammadi Blood Bank CEO Syed Mehdi Rizvi, among others.

DG Ahtesham Shahid announced that this initiative will be expanded as per the demand from different areas.

He said these desks will offer free testing for Thalassemia and Hepatitis A, B, and C, supported by the Sindh government and Muhammadi Blood Bank.

Mr Shahid said that with nearly 500,000 people visiting NADRA centers across Karachi

and Sindh, encouraging Thalassemia testing could greatly benefit public health.

Dr. Dur-e-naz Jamal stressed the need for heightened public awareness and testing, particularly for families with Thalassemia cases.

She said minor Thalassemia affects about 5pc of the population, adding that early detection and education was a must to curb the disease.

An awareness campaign involving educational and community leaders is planned to further promote Thalassemia testing and prevention.