Health minister pledges maximum support for Thalassemia patients

Health and Family Welfare Minister Sardar Md Sakhawat Husain on Friday said the government will provide the highest level of support to thalassemia patients.

He said this while addressing the Blood Donor Recognition 2026 ceremony organised by the Bangladesh Thalassemia Samity (BTS) at the Institution of Engineers, Bangladesh (IEB) in the capital’s Ramna area.

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s spouse and Ziaur Rahman Foundation Vice-President and renowned cardiologist Dr Zubaida Rahman attended the event as the chief guest.

The event was arranged to recognize and express gratitude to voluntary blood donors for their invaluable contributions.

Highlighting the contributions of blood donors, the health minister described repeated blood donations to save patients' lives as a noble humanitarian initiative.

One young donor who donated blood 41 times for thalassemia patients, while another donated 38 times, were recognised today.

Recalling the healthcare vision of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, Sakhawat said whenever Ziaur Rahman traveled to villages across the country, he took doctors with him.

He also encouraged people to adopt healthier food habits to raise public awareness, improve lifestyles, and build a healthier nation.

Emphasising the importance of disease prevention, the minister said that critical illnesses-including cancer, kidney disease, and liver cancer—are increasing at an alarming rate in rural areas.

He said the government is giving highest importance to preventive measures, as prevention is preferable to relying solely on conventional treatment.

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At the event, awards were presented to individual blood donors and various organisations involved in blood donation activities.

Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) Mayor Abdus Salam, Executive Director of Ziaur Rahman Foundation and cancer specialist Professor Dr Farhad Halim Donar also spoke on the occasion while BTS President MA Matin was in the chair. 

Professor Dr Harun Al Rashid, president of the Doctors Association of Bangladesh (DAB), and Riazul Islam, chairman of the Rajdhani Unnayan Kartripakkha (RAJUK), were also present.