08/05/2026
Observance of International Thalassemia Day 2026
On 7 May 2026, the Social Welfare Society of KMU Institute of Health Sciences (IHS) Swat in collaboration with the Regional Blood Centre (RBC), Swat and Wajeeha Thalassemia Centre, Swat organized an awareness and educational event on “Thalassemia” in observance of International Thalassemia Day 2026 with the theme "“Hidden No More: Finding the Undiagnosed. Supporting the Unseen.”
The primary objective of the event was to enhance awareness regarding thalassemia, its genetic transmission, preventive measures, and the importance of volunteer blood donation.
The program formally commenced with the recitation of the Holy Quran, followed by welcome remarks and informative speeches delivered by respected faculty members, invited guests, and students. The speakers highlighted the medical, social, and psychological aspects of thalassemia and emphasized the significance of early screening, public awareness, and community participation in disease prevention.
A role-play and satirical stage drama were also presented by students to portray the societal ignorance and familial factors contributing to the increasing prevalence of thalassemia. These performances effectively conveyed the importance of premarital screening, genetic counseling, and responsible health practices. Furthermore, an interactive question-and-answer session was conducted with thalassemia patients, allowing participants to gain deeper insight into the challenges faced by affected individuals and their families.
The honorable guests included Dr. Shahid Alam MO RBC Swat, Dr. Fazal Qadar Admin Officer RBC Swat, SGTH, Captain Naima Gul Assistant Director Wajeeha Thalassemia Centre Assistant Director KMU IHS Swat Dr. Adnan Bacha, Departmental Coordinator Mr. Ikram Ullah, Assistant Professor BSN Mr. Nadir Shah, Assistant Professor Paramedics Mr. Aftaab, and Assistant Professor BSN Mr. Abrar. Their presence and valuable contributions greatly enriched the event.
At the conclusion of the program, shields of honor were presented to the esteemed guests in recognition of their support and participation.
Approximately 150 students actively participated in the event. The organizing team comprised Aizaz Ul Haq, Zia Ullah, Miftah Uddin, Shafi, Ayaz, Sulaiman, Irfan, Zia, Hamza, Aqib, Nasr Ullah, Wisal, Maria, Rukhsar, Anisa, Sona, Zohra, and Rani, whose collective efforts ensured the successful management and ex*****on of the program.
Overall, the event was successfully conducted and achieved its intended objectives by providing comprehensive awareness regarding thalassemia, its root causes, associated genetic and social factors, preventive strategies, and the collective responsibility of society in combating the disease. The combination of educational speeches, dramatic presentations, and interactive discussions made the event both informative and impactful for the participants.
Photography Credit:
Faisoo Allenn
Health Department, KP
Wajeeha Thalassaemia Centre Swat
KMU-Institute of Health Sciences, Swat