PESHAWAR — The number of registered thalassemia and hemophilia patients at Hamza Foundation Welfare Thalassemia Hospital has increased to 1,563, placing additional pressure on the facility’s limited resources.
According to the foundation, the patient count stood at 1,560 just days ago before new cases were reported. The hospital continues to provide free treatment and blood transfusion services to approximately 50 to 60 patients daily, including during the holy month of Ramadan.
Founder Ijaz Ali Khan said many children suffering from thalassemia rely on the foundation for donated blood and essential medicines. He added that patients travel from remote districts to receive treatment, including screened blood transfusions and medical care using modern equipment.
Blood shortage and financial strain
The foundation has reported a shortage of blood donations and financial resources, particularly during Ramadan when routine donations typically decline. Officials say the rising number of patients has increased operational demands.
Ijaz Ali Khan appealed to government authorities, philanthropists and the general public to support the foundation through zakat and charitable contributions to help sustain treatment services.
Call for preventive screening
He also emphasized the importance of preventive measures, including pre-marital screening tests, to reduce the spread of thalassemia. Awareness about genetic risks, including cousin marriages, is critical to limiting new cases, he said.
Health experts note that thalassemia is an inherited blood disorder that requires regular transfusions and long-term medical management, placing a significant emotional and financial burden on affected families.
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