Dhaka: Commerce Adviser Sk Bashir Uddin today emphasized the need for an action plan aimed at reducing the number of thalassemia patients in Bangladesh to zero within the next decade. “Each thalassemia patient may require up to Tk 20,000 to Tk 30,000 for treatment. The disease imposes a high economic burden. Even if only one percent of the country’s 10 to 11 percent thalassemia carriers develop the disease, the national treatment cost could soar to Tk 2,000 to 10,000 crore. We can reduce this expenditure through public awareness,” Bashir said.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Bashir made these remarks while serving as the chief guest at a programme organized for ‘International Thalassemia Day 2025’ at the auditorium of Bangladesh Shishu Hospital and Institute in the city. The adviser emphasized that the disease is largely preventable through proper screening and public education.
To eradicate thalassemia, Bashir proposed training marriage registrars, engaging religious leaders and school teachers in awareness campaigns, and building public consensus on blood screening before marriage. He highlighted that being a carrier is not inherently problematic, as carriers can lead normal lives, but the risk arises when two carriers marry.
In a symbolic gesture to kickstart a thalassemia awareness campaign, the adviser underwent a blood test himself and encouraged others to follow suit. The event was presided over by Professor Dr AKM Azizul Haque, Chairman of the Management Board of Bangladesh Shishu Hospital and Institute, with Professor Dr Md Selimuzzaman, former head of the Department of Pediatric Medicine, serving as the special guest. Professor Dr Md Mahbubul Haque, Director of Bangladesh Shishu Hospital and Institute, delivered the welcome speech.