Secretary of Health and Chairman of the Balochistan Blood Transfusion Authority, Mujeeb ur Rehman Panizai, announced the decision. As the cases attributed to prevalent cousin marriages in tribal communities are rising, this decision aims to address them and lead to a healthy living.

The mandatory testing policy is a proactive step toward preventing the hereditary blood disorder, and that amendments to existing legislation will be made where necessary to enforce this requirement, explained Panizai.

Plans to provide testing facilities at laboratories for public convenience and to launch widespread awareness campaigns to inform communities about thalassemia prevention and genetic risk have been highlighted by Panizai.

This policy aligns with broader national efforts to reduce the burden of thalassemia through legislative and educational interventions. Linking marriage registration (Nikah) with pre-marital screening to prevent genetic diseases has been long advocated by experts.

Also Read: Central Ruet e Hilal committee meets today for Rabi‘ al Awal moon sighting

Mandatory HIV and thalassemia tests before marriage, with test reports being verified by registered Nikah khwans prior to solemnization, have been recommended in Sindh.

This move by the Balochistan government not only addresses a critical public health challenge but also sets a precedent for other provinces.