An interactive session titled “Thalassemia is Preventable: Screening is the Key” was organized by the Bureau of STAGS, University of Sindh, Jamshoro in collaboration with the Preen Rasool Thalassemia Care Trust Blood Bank & Laboratory here on Wednesday.

The event held at the Auditorium of the Institute of Commerce & Management aimed to raise awareness about thalassemia and provide free screening tests for students.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Fateh Muhammad Marri, Dean Faculty of Commerce & Business Administration Professor Dr. Javed Chandio, Director Institute of Commerce & Management Professor Dr. Hakim Ali Mahesar, Manager Press Syed Sajjad Hussain Shah and a large number of faculty members and students attended the session.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Dur-e-Noor Jamal said that thalassemia was a dangerous but preventable and manageable disease. She explained that the disorder could be controlled through timely screening and awareness among young people before marriage.

“If both partners are thalassemia minors, there is a high chance their child will be born with major thalassemia,” she said. “However, if one partner is a carrier and the other is not, a healthy child can be born. That’s why screening before marriage is crucial,” she stressed.

Dr. Jamal further emphasized the need for educational institutions to play a key role in spreading awareness about genetic diseases like thalassemia. “Universities can make a real difference by organizing regular blood screening camps and awareness sessions to ensure that our youth make informed health decisions,” she added.

The speaker highlighted that regular blood screening, genetic counseling and awareness could significantly reduce the prevalence of thalassemia in Pakistan, where the disease remains a serious public health concern.

Vice-Chancellor Dr. Fateh Muhammad Marri appreciated the efforts of the Bureau of STAGS and the Preen Rasool Thalassemia Care Trust for arranging the awareness event.

He said that such initiatives reflected the university’s commitment to public health and social responsibility. “Preventive healthcare is far more effective than curative approaches,” he said, urging students to participate in screening programs and help build a healthier future generation.

The event concluded with free thalassemia screening tests for students conducted by the team of the Preen Rasool Thalassemia Care Trust Blood Bank & Laboratory.