Dhaka: Social Welfare and Women and Children Affairs Minister AZM Zahid Hossain has emphasized the necessity of diagnosing thalassemia in individuals prior to marriage to determine if either party is a carrier of the disease. Thalassemia, an inherited blood disorder, impairs the body’s ability to produce hemoglobin and healthy red blood cells. The minister pointed out that if both partners are carriers, there is a high likelihood of their children being affected by the disorder.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Minister Zahid Hossain discussed this critical issue during a seminar organized by the Bangladesh Thalassemia Foundation Hospital in recognition of ‘World Thalassemia Day-2026’, held at Hosaf Tower in Malibagh, Dhaka. The minister underscored the government’s commitment to providing healthcare services and highlighted the social welfare ministry’s implementation of numerous social safety net programs.
The seminar featured several notable speakers, including Social Welfare Secretary Dr. Mohammad Abu Yusuf, Bangladesh Medical University Pro-Vice Chancellor Prof. M Abul Kalam Azad, and Bangladesh Thalassemia Foundation’s Chief Medical Officer Dr. Sajia Islam. The session was chaired by Bangladesh Thalassemia Foundation Chairman Professor Manzur Morshed.
Minister Hossain revealed alarming statistics, stating that one in every nine individuals in Bangladesh is a thalassemia carrier, with approximately 8,000 children being born with the disease annually. He also emphasized the significant role that mass media can play in raising awareness about thalassemia and its implications.
In his visit to the Bangladesh Thalassemia Foundation Hospital, the minister toured various day-care wards, engaged with patients, and inquired about their health, reiterating the government’s dedication to enhancing healthcare services for all.
Source: Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha