07/05/2026
Observance of International Thalassemia Day 2026
On 7 May 2026, the Social Welfare Society of KMU Institute of Health Sciences (IHS) Swat organized an awareness and educational event on “Thalassemia” in observance of International Thalassemia Day at KMU IHS Swat. The event was conducted in collaboration with the Regional Blood Centre (RBC), Saidu Group of Teaching Hospitals (SGTH), Saidu Sharif Swat, and Wajeeha Thalassemia Centre, Saidu Sharif Swat.
The primary objective of the event was to enhance awareness regarding thalassemia, its genetic transmission, preventive measures, and the importance of voluntary blood donation. The collaborating welfare organizations, particularly the Wajeeha Thalassemia Centre and Regional Blood Centre (RBC), have consistently played a vital role in supporting thalassemia patients through awareness campaigns, blood donation initiatives, educational activities, and preventive health programs aimed at reducing the burden of the disease within the community.
The program formally commenced with the recitation of the Holy Quran, followed by welcome remarks and informative speeches delivered by respected faculty members, invited guests, and students. The speakers highlighted the medical, social, and psychological aspects of thalassemia and emphasized the significance of early screening, public awareness, and community participation in disease prevention.
A role-play and satirical stage drama were also presented by students to portray the societal ignorance and familial factors contributing to the increasing prevalence of thalassemia. These performances effectively conveyed the importance of premarital screening, genetic counseling, and responsible health practices. Furthermore, an interactive question-and-answer session was conducted with thalassemia patients, allowing participants to gain deeper insight into the challenges faced by affected individuals and their families.
Approximately 150 students actively participated in the event. The organizing team comprised Aizaz Ul Haq, Zia Ullah, Miftah Uddin, Shafi, Ayaz, Sulaiman, Irfan, Zia, Hamza, Aqib, Nasr Ullah, Wisal, Maria, Rukhsar, Anisa, Sona, Zohra, and Rani, whose collective efforts ensured the successful management and ex*****on of the program.
The honorable guests included the Head of Regional Blood Centre (RBC) SGTH, Assistant Director of Wajeeha Thalassemia Centre Saidu Sharif Swat Ms. Naeema, Assistant Director KMU IHS Swat Dr. Adnan Bacha, Departmental Coordinator Mr. Ikram Ullah, Assistant Professor BSN Mr. Nadir Shah, Assistant Professor Paramedics Mr. Aftaab, and Assistant Professor BSN Mr. Abrar. Their presence and valuable contributions greatly enriched the event.
At the conclusion of the program, shields of honor were presented to the esteemed guests in recognition of their support and participation. Overall, the event was successfully conducted and achieved its intended objectives by providing comprehensive awareness regarding thalassemia, its root causes, associated genetic and social factors, preventive strategies, and the collective responsibility of society in combating the disease. The combination of educational speeches, dramatic presentations, and interactive discussions made the event both informative and impactful for the participants.
Media Wing
Social Welfare Society KMU IHS Swat
Photography Credit:
Faisoo Allenn
Khyber Medical University, Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Wajeeha Thalassaemia Centre Swat
Regional Blood Center Swat