Lahore: Reports suggesting a shortage of Thalassemia medications have been dismissed as unfounded by the Health Department. According to Directorate General Public Relation – Govt of Punjab, the Punjab Thalassemia and Other Genetic Disorders Prevention and Research Institute (PTGD) operates nine regional centers across the province, ensuring comprehensive coverage for disease prevention through screening, prenatal diagnosis, and genetic counseling.

Over a span of 15 years, the PTGD has conducted screenings of 511,782 individuals, diagnosing 4,949 with Thalassemia Major. Additionally, prenatal screenings identified 3,296 fetuses or children with the condition. Treatment for Thalassemia Major includes blood transfusions, a service facilitated by a center within the Institute of Blood Transfusion Services (IBTS).

Major Thalassemia centers are also maintained by the Thalassemia Foundation, Aleem Dar Foundation, and Sundas Foundation, providing necessary blood transfusion services. Since the beginning of 2026, the IBTS in Lahore has administered 3,328 blood transfusions and dispensed 52,052 doses of iron-chelating agents to registered patients, indicating an adequate supply of these essential medications.