Dhaka: Health and Family Welfare Minister Sardar Md. Sakhawat Husain today announced that the government will provide the highest level of support to thalassemia patients. He made this statement during the Blood Donor Recognition 2026 ceremony organized by the Bangladesh Thalassemia Samity (BTS) at the Institution of Engineers, Bangladesh (IEB) in Ramna.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's spouse, Dr. Zubaida Rahman, who is also the Vice-President of the Ziaur Rahman Foundation and a renowned cardiologist, attended the event as the chief guest. The ceremony was held to acknowledge and express gratitude to voluntary blood donors for their invaluable contributions to thalassemia patients.
During the event, the health minister emphasized the noble humanitarian initiative of repeated blood donations, which are essential for saving patients' lives. Noteworthy recognitions were given to young donors, one of whom donated blood 41 times and another 38 times for thalassemia patients.
Recalling the healthcare vision of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, Sakhawat mentioned that Ziaur Rahman ensured healthcare accessibility by taking doctors with him during his travels across rural regions. The minister also encouraged adopting healthier food habits to increase public awareness, improve lifestyles, and foster a healthier nation.
Sakhawat further stressed the significance of disease prevention, noting that critical illnesses, including cancer, kidney disease, and liver cancer, are rising alarmingly in rural areas. He stated the government's commitment to prioritizing preventive measures over conventional treatment.
Awards were presented at the event to individual blood donors and organizations active in blood donation activities. Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) Mayor Abdus Salam, Executive Director of Ziaur Rahman Foundation and cancer specialist Professor Dr. Farhad Halim Donar also addressed the gathering, while BTS President Engineer MA Matin chaired the event. Professor Dr. Harun Al Rashid, President of the Doctors Association of Bangladesh (DAB), and Engineer Riazul Islam, Chairman of the Rajdhani Unnayan Kartripakkha (RAJUK), were among the attendees.