Leading health experts in Pakistan have proposed making pre marital blood screening mandatory in the Nikah Nama. The move would help prevent the spread of Thalassemia across the country. Consequently, health experts want blood test mandatory for Nikkah after the National Thalassemia Conference organized by Omair Sana Foundation. Doctors, lawmakers, and health professionals discussed strategies to tackle the disease at the conference. Dr. Saqib Ansari stressed that compulsory blood screening before marriage could significantly reduce the number of children born with thalassemia. He noted that countries such as Italy had successfully controlled the disease through preventive screening programs.

Pakistan continues to face a major challenge. An estimated 5,000 to 8,000 children are born with thalassemia every year. Therefore, health experts want blood test mandatory for Nikkah to curb this rising number. During the conference, specialists highlighted the importance of early diagnosis, public awareness campaigns, regular blood donations, stronger legislation, and rural access to CBC and blood screening tests. Senator Rubina Qaimkhani urged educational institutions and media organizations to spread awareness about the disease and its prevention.

Sindh Assembly member Farhan Farooq demanded effective legislation and strict implementation of mandatory blood screening before marriage, especially in rural areas. Sindh Minister Nasir Hussain Shah said awareness regarding thalassemia has improved in recent years. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to eliminating the disease. He added that thalassemia centers have been established alongside NADRA offices in Karachi as part of broader healthcare initiatives. Health experts want blood test mandatory for Nikkah to save future generations.

The conference also marked the launch of a book presenting a national strategy for eliminating thalassemia in Pakistan. The proposal now awaits government action.