Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting Marriyum Aurangzeb said that legislation for the prevention of Thalassemia has been done in the National Assembly, according to which blood tests for Thalassemia will be made mandatory before marriage.

While addressing a function in connection with World Thalassemia Day in Islamabad, the minister said massive awareness media campaign will be launched for the prevention of the lethal diseases, Radio Pakistan reported.

The information minister said that all departments of the ministry — including Radio Pakistan and Pakistan Television — will be asked to broadcast special programmes to create awareness for the prevention of chronic diseases and disorders like Thalassemia and HIV/ AIDS.

She said all the private channels will also be included in the campaign as “it is the responsibility of all of us to play due role in this regard”.

Marriyum Aurangzeb said that a Thalassemia centre has been set up in the federal capital under Pakistan Baitul Mal. She said similar centres will also be established at the district levels.