Category: Health

Karachi (Muhammad Yasir)

A study co-authored by researchers from the Department of Community Health Sciences and Medicine at the Aga Khan University has discovered the presence of second-hand smoking (SHS) in an alarming 95% of children in Pakistan and Bangladesh.

SHS occurs when people around an active smoker inhale the exhaled tobacco fumes coming from the smoker. This highlights the deeply disturbing ripple effect of smoking, which can penetrate through different social spaces, especially in places where poor smoking restrictions are in place.

The level of SHS exposure in Dhaka and Karachi, the two study sites indicate widespread and unrestricted smoking, according to the researchers. The findings, published in the Nicotine and Tobacco Research Journal, provide evidence for extremely high level of SHS exposure in Karachi, Pakistan where nearly all (99.4%) of the children were found exposed to SHS, the majority of which is perpetuated through male-dominated smoking cultures.

The research team conducted a survey on 2769 children aged 9-14 from 74 primary schools in Dhaka and Karachi to assess their exposure to SHS. To measure the exposure, they tested their saliva to see if it contained cotinine. They examined the association between the adult smoking behaviours of residents and visitors at homes and salivary cotinine levels in children in both cities. Compared to children living with non-smokers, those living with adult smokers had higher levels of SHS exposure. Similarly, children living in houses permitting indoor smoking had slightly higher levels of SHS exposure than those houses where smoking was not permitted.

Dr Romaina Iqbal, and Prof Javaid Khan from the Aga Khan University, Pakistan pointed out that, “The high exposure of children to SHS is in contrast to figures from many developed countries where only a minority of children are now exposed to such risks.”

The effects of second-hand smoking have been long observed and analysed by scientists around the world and are nothing short of horrendous. It has been proven to add to a variety of respiratory tract infections  in newborns, infants, and children right up to the age of adolescence. Moreover, research suggests that children born with hereditary disorders are less likely to survive when exposed to second-hand smoke and may lead to  an increased frequency of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). “This research findings are really alarming. If we cannot protect the children from SHS exposure, they will develop increased risk of respiratory infections and associated deaths and will be at risk of lower academic performance and a high rate of smoking uptake in later life”, said Professor Rumana Huque, from ARK Foundation, Bangladesh and a co-author of the paper.

“It is important to advocate for smoke-free homes and cars to protect children from SHS exposure. However, in addition to these initiatives, it is also important to enforce smoking bans in public places and transportation, especially those public spaces that children frequently visit, such as playgrounds, parks and fairgrounds. It is essential to complement smoking restrictions with tobacco cessation advice and support in these settings,” said Professor Kamran Siddiqi, from University of York, UK, and the Chief Investigator of the study.

The research team called for a comprehensive approach to protect the children from this harm, smoking restrictions in households and enforcement of smoking bans in public places. 

Keytaab and Health Services Academy Host Groundbreaking Digital Healthcare Seminar.

Lahore (Muhammad Yasir) Keytaab, a digital learning platform dedicated to making knowledge and skills accessible to all, in collaboration with Health Services Academy (HSA), Islamabad, hosted a transformative Digital Healthcare Seminar at Serena Hotel. The event attracted a diverse audience including doctors, healthcare professionals, trainers, policy makers, government officials, technology leaders, CEOs of pharma companies, medical faculty, and high-profile figures from the healthcare sector.

The seminar featured keynote addresses by distinguished speakers, including Chief Guest Lieutenant General (R) Nigar Johar Khan HI (M), TI (M), Guest of Honor Mr Shahzad Ali Khan, Dean & Vice Chancellor of HSA, and Key Note Speaker, Mr Zamurrad khan (Hila-i-Imtiaz) Founder & CEO Pakistan Sweet Home, Guest of Honor, Mr Saeed Ahmed Sheikh Director General Pakistan Broadcasting Corporation (PBC) and Honorable Mr Nasir Mehmood Elia, Director BIC Health Services Academy.

The speakers lauded Keytaab for its timely initiative to promote online learning, especially for healthcare professionals. They praised Keytaab’s vision to reshape Pakistan’s healthcare landscape through technology-based online courses.

Lt. General (R) Nigar Johar emphasized that digitization, particularly in training and career advancement, can address many healthcare challenges. Prof. Shahzad Ali Khan expressed gratitude to Keytaab for providing a seamless e-learning platform and announced the launch of a one-year diploma in digital health via Keytaab, aiming to train around 100,000 graduates in various digital healthcare aspects.

“This diploma program will be a game-changer for Pakistan’s healthcare sector,” said Prof. Shahzad Ali Khan. “It will not only enhance expertise in digital health but also equip graduates with the necessary technology tools and connections to make a significant impact.”

Mr. Ghazanfar Ali Khan, CEO of Keytaab, expressed his excitement about the seminar’s success, which brought together industry leaders to share knowledge, ideas, and best practices. “Our goal is to accelerate the adoption of digital health solutions and improve patient outcomes through the power of knowledge and skill,” he added.

The seminar also featured panel discussions and networking opportunities, covering topics such as telemedicine, healthcare analytics, digital therapeutics, online consultancy, and patient engagement.

AKUH, Novartis Pakistan and PBS Join Forces to Provide Targeted Therapy to Cancer Patients”.

Pakistan (Muhammad Yasir)

The Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH) and the Patients Behbud Society for AKUH (PBS) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Novartis Pakistan to provide access to quality targeted therapy treatment to cancer patients without financial means and who come from humble background. Patients suffering from Breast Cancer, blood cancer like CML, MPNs & GvHD will benefit from the partnership. The announcement came during an official signing ceremony held at the University Hospital premises in Karachi.

Every year, over 100,000 people in Pakistan are diagnosed with various types of cancers. Among these, breast, lung, and colorectal cancers are the most commonly diagnosed. Under an MOU, Novartis will provide free-of cost medicines to AKUH, covering partial treatment for needy patients. PBS will then cover the remaining treatment cost. This initiative offers hope for a cure and improved health, allowing patients to lead productive lives after treatment.

Dr. Farhat Abbas, CEO, AKUH, Mr. Arif Tahir, CEO Novartis Pakistan and Mr. Abdul Qadir Memon, President of PBS signed and exchanged the MoU. Other senior officials from both sides were also present to witness the ceremony. 

 Speaking at the ceremony, Dr. Farhat Abbas, CEO, AKUH, said: “AKUH endeavours to provide access to our health care services for needy patients who may not, on account of financial constraints, be able to afford our regular Hospital charges. Patients who receive financial support receive the same level of care as all other patients. Last year alone we spent more than PKR 5.8 billion on welfare programmes. Our oncologists and other experts aim to provide the best possible treatment to patients and we plan to increase our capacity to treat more patients.”  

Commenting on the partnership, Arif Tahir, Country President and CEO Novartis Pakistan said: “I am very excited about our partnership with the Aga Khan University Hospital Karachi and the impact it can create for patients. Novartis seeks to work with all stakeholders to improve access to medicines for patients. Development of and timely access to new medicines requires a strong innovation ecosystem. This collaboration is a significant step in this direction accelerating our ongoing efforts to expand access to cutting-edge oncology treatments for Pakistani patients.  I am particularly happy of what this partnership brings to women suffering from Breast Cancer in terms of overall survivorship and quality of life. Together with the Aga Khan University Hospital, we are committed to making a meaningful difference in the lives of our patients”.

Mr. Abdul Qadir Memon, President, The Patients` Behbud Society for AKUH, appreciated Novartis Pakistan’s support and said: “It is indeed heartening to see our partners like Novartis Pakistan coming forward to help mustehiq patients by donating expensive cancer drugs. The more we collect zakat and sadaqat, the greater we can serve such needy patients, with ever more barakaat to the givers of this charity.”

Dr. Zehra Faddo, Departmental Head Oncology, AKUH, said: “Disparity in care is a major challenge across the world with the cost of treatment a major contributor in low middle-income countries like Pakistan. Program like this partnership with AKUH & Novartis, helps doctors reduce this gap in treatment outcome of those with cancer and blood diseases by providing highly effective drugs for their patients who may otherwise would not have been able to benefit from them.”

 

Lahore (Muhammad Yasir)

FCEPL celebrated World Milk Day 2024 in partnership with the Department of Food Science & Technology and the Food Junction Society at the University of Central Punjab on other day.

Dr. Muhammad Nasir, Head of Corporate Affairs at FCEPL, engaged with students on the critical importance of safe and accessible dairy in Pakistan. He also participated in an awareness walk, underscoring the vital role of high-quality dairy products in daily diets across all age groups.

Reflecting on the event’s success, Dr. Muhammad Nasir remarked, “I am delighted to be at the University of Central Punjab today and grateful to our collaborative partners for highlighting such an essential topic. In Pakistan, we face a formidable challenge against malnutrition and stunted growth, and dairy nutrition plays a pivotal role in this battle. At FCEPL, we are committed to raising awareness about the importance of milk in daily diets and employing the highest standards of the global dairy industry to ensure that nutritious dairy products are accessible throughout Pakistan.”

This collaborative event is part of FrieslandCampina Engro Pakistan’s ongoing celebrations of World Milk Day, during which the company is engaging with educational institutions nationwide. These efforts aim to promote the consumption of safe milk and highlight its crucial role in combating malnutrition.”

Earlier, FCEPL’s Managing Director, Kashan Hasan, along with the leadership team, visited RAAST school in Karachi. They engaged with students about the importance of dairy products and milk in their daily diets and joined in the collective celebration of World Milk Day 2024.”

4,503 maternal deaths averted in a decade through Sitara Baji initiative.

Islamabad (Muhammad Yasir) Greenstar Social Marketing Pakistan (G) Limited, a leading private not for profit organisation dedicated to improving public health in Pakistan hosted an event in Islamabad to celebrate 32 years of Sitara Bajis – The Change Agents, an initiative designed to allow women to not just embrace financial freedom but spread health awareness in their respective communities at the same time. This milestone event highlighted the impact made across Pakistan through the program over the past three decades.

Greenstar Social Marketing, through an extensive network of 2,500 Sitara Bajis and 500 Sattar Bhais has helped avert 4,503 maternal deaths, and 46,032 child deaths during the last decade, showcasing the profound impact of community health and wellbeing, on the masses. Greenstar’s community health workers have been instrumental in driving behavioral change communication (BCC) to improve knowledge on women’s health through counseling and referrals, offering women in various under developed areas to obtain better maternal and child health.

The event was graced by Dr. Shabana Saleem, Director General – Population Planning Wing, MONHSRC, as the chief guest, Dr. Zaeem Zia, District Health Officer, Islamabad, and Dr. Syed Azizur Rab, CEO of Greenstar Social Marketing. These distinguished officials shared their insights and remarks with the audience, enriching the discussion with their valuable perspectives.

Reflecting on Greenstar’s legacy, Dr. Syed Azizur Rab, CEO, Greenstar Social Marketing, stated, “Over the past 32 years, Greenstar has continuously evolved to meet the dynamic health needs of our communities. Our vision has always been to empower individuals with knowledge and access to quality health services, and our journey has been marked by innovative approaches in behavioral change and demand creation. The dedication of our Sitara Bajis and Sattar Bhais is a testament to our mission of transforming lives through sustainable health solutions.”

Since its establishment in 1991, Greenstar Social Marketing has been a pivotal player in Pakistan’s health sector. Over the past 32 years, Greenstar has met women’s and couples’ family planning (FP) needs and expanded its services to include maternal and child health, reproductive health, women’s nutritional needs, self-care initiatives for women and young girls, and various awareness and screening programmes related to breast cancer and diabetes in pregnancy.

Karachi (Muhammad Yasir)

In an initiative to combat one of the world’s deadliest diseases, the Directorate of Malarial Control (DoMC) and the Aga Khan University’s Malaria Elimination Consortium (AKU-MEC), the Ministry for Health, Sindh, the department for Vector Borne Diseases and Zenysis Technologies have joined hands to spearhead Pakistan’s mission to eliminate malaria by 2035. At a symposium held at Aga Khan University in Karachi, leaders from federal and provincial ministries, along with experts from AKU-MEC, convened to strategize and plan the roadmap for eradicating malaria across Pakistan. Led by Professor Dr M Asim Beg from the department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine at AKU, the symposium is a part of the GLIDE project for Malaria elimination in Pakistan. “It is important for our health practitioners to be armed with knowledge and resources on vector research techniques and climate change analysis, as well as any factors attributed to the strengthening of malarial parasites in the country. I would very much like to see this partnership move forward and apply the recommendations made in Phase 1 of this project by AKU and Zenysis to make Thatta District a model district for malaria elimination” said Health Minister, Government of Sindh Dr Azra Pechuho, who is also the Patron-in-Chief of AKU-MEC. “Pakistan has more than a decade to achieve its goal of eliminating malaria by 2035. Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan have done it,” said AKU President, Dr Sulaiman Shahabuddin while addressing the gathering “Sri Lanka has done it. So has China and the UAE. I believe Pakistan can also be a beacon of hope for its surrounding regions in the war against malaria.” The AKU-MEC also announced plans to establish a vector science research facility to assist the provincial government’s efforts in combating malaria. This initiative will be a prime focus of the AKU-Lisbon Research Initiative, further solidifying AKU’s commitment to scientific advancement and public health. “The challenge to eliminate malaria from Pakistan by 2035 is one that requires collective efforts, and we are more prepared than ever to assist the government, stakeholders, and healthcare experts in achieving this goal,” said Dr M Asim Baig, who is also the Patron in Charge for the Consortium. A Memorandum of Understanding has been signed between AKU and the Directorate of Malaria Control which enables the sharing of national data. This collaboration aims to improve national surveillance and information systems, enabling more effective data analysis and informed decision-making in the battle against malaria. The MEC symposium is another milestone in the journey towards malaria elimination, shedding light on current gaps and challenges while reshaping community perspectives on the disease.

Startups from Pakistan, India and Bangladesh took center stage to showcase their groundbreaking initiatives in protein to help achieve food and nutrition security.

Dubai (Nut Desk)  Right to Protein powered by the U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC) hosted its second Pitch2Fork program in Dubai, UAE. With a focus on innovations in the protein industry, this platform provided a unique opportunity for entrepreneurs across Bangladesh, India, and Pakistan to pitch their rising businesses to a panel of investors.

Shortlisted companies that leveraged this unique opportunity included Gladful, Hello Tempayy, Poulta, and WeGro.

 While South Asia ranks as the fastest-growing region in the world, it is challenged with meeting the rapidly growing demand for protein. Reflecting on the potential impact of Pitch2Fork, Kevin Roepke, Regional Director of South Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa (SAASSA), USSEC, commented “Pitch2Fork is strategically positioned to facilitate the networking needed between startups and investors, accelerating innovation. By embracing disruption, proactively investing in the future, and addressing protein challenges, we create a path towards a more nutrition-secure tomorrow.”

 Hello Tempayy, an innovative Indian start up reshaping tempeh production was awarded the Pitch2Fork 2024 trophy for ‘Protein Start-up of the Year.’ With their user-friendly and flavorful offerings, Hello Tempayy is expanding the array of soy-based protein options available to consumers in India. On seeing the value of winning the title, Hello Tempayy’s Cofounder and Nutritionist, Malavika Siddharth, from India added, “As a nutritionist, I witness the effects of protein deficiencies on an individual’s health on a regular basis. That’s why we founded Hello Tempayy – to bridge this gap. Platforms like Pitch2fork present an invaluable opportunity to amplify our mission to raise awareness and offer nutritious and delicious high-quality protein options.”

 Providing insight on their experience as a nominee in Pitch2Fork from Pakistan’s poultry segment, Khushbakht Ashraf, GM of Global Sales and Marketing, at Poulta added “Presenting Poulta’s innovative solutions for traceability, vertical integration, and data-driven decision making in front of such a great audience was an immensely valuable experience. We are committed to farm-to-fork traceability while maximizing the production of protein and

this perfectly resonates with USSEC and its mission. It has been a pleasure to network and connect and discuss future collaborations and partnerships for increasing awareness of protein.”

Md Mahmudur Rahman, Founder of WeGro, another nominee from Bangladesh’s Agri-tech sector added, “At WeGro, we empower farmers by providing access to finance, inputs, and markets. We acknowledge Pitch2Fork as an excellent platform that celebrates innovative solutions addressing the protein gap for a more sustainable future.”

Attendees were inspired by the triumph of Agroshift, an agritech startup from Bangladesh and the Winner of Pitch2Fork 2022. Agroshift operates as an omnichannel agri-supply chain platform that helps farmers sell their goods to businesses and consumers enabling fair pricing and better market access with increased affordability, quality, and convenience to buyers through its micro-fulfillment distribution network.

Pitch2Fork’s renowned speaker lineup included Janna Fritz, Vice Chair, USSEC; Henry Gordon-Smith, Founder and CEO at Agritecture; Roma Roy Choudhury, Founder & COO at Evolved Foods; Deeba Giannoulis, Regional Head of U.S. Soy Sustainability and Marketing at USSEC-SAASSA; and Roberto Vitón, Founder and Managing Director from Valoral Advisors.

 U.S. Soy has been at the forefront of innovation and sustainability – continuously improving to deliver solutions to its customers across the globe. With a commitment to nourishing the world sustainably, U.S. soybean farmers support platforms like Pitch2Fork and deliver solutions like the Soy Value Oil Calculator, Specialty U.S. Soy Database, In-Pond Raceway Systems (IPRS), the International Aquaculture Feed Formulation Database (IAFDD) and the Soy Excellence Centers to name a few.

Pakistan (Muhammad Yasir)

Aga Khan Hospital, Hyderabad, in collaboration with the Hyderabad Municipal Corporation, organized a free health camp at the Hyderabad Club to celebrate Mother’s Day. This endeavour brought together medical experts and civic leaders to promote community health.

The health camp offered consultations spanning various health areas including women and children’s health, heart health, eye care, endocrinology, internal medicine, and physiotherapy. To further increase access to quality care, complimentary services such as ECGs, blood sugar tests, and eye examinations were provided. The event drew an impressive turnout of approximately 300 patients.

The success of this initiative was made possible through the dedication and expertise of esteemed medical professionals, including Dr Nigar Jabeen, Dr Qamarunnisa Mohabbat Khan, Dr Atiya Unar, Dr Heeramani Lohana, Dr Sofia, Dr Gulshad, Dr Muhammad Shafique Bughio, Dr Muhammad Saleem, Dr Abeer Memon, Dr Rizwan Channa, Dr Raheel Shaikh, and Dr Shumaila Aijaz alongside the nursing and management team of the Aga Khan Hospital, Hyderabad.

Mr. Kashif Shoro, Mayor of Hyderabad District, graced the event as the chief guest. Mr. Shoro, along with his team, actively participated in the proceedings, affirming his support for initiatives aimed at enhancing public health and well-being.

The event concluded on a celebratory note with a cake cutting ceremony led by the Mayor, symbolizing unity and collaboration in the pursuit of better healthcare for mothers of all the age groups and their families.

Multan (Nut Desk)

Dawood Global Foundation (DGF) distributes 155 wheelchairs throughout Southern Punjab. 50 were donated to Sheikh Zyed Hospital Rahim Yar Khan, 50 to Bahawalpur Victoria Hospital and 55 Wheelchairs at Nishtar Hospital, Multan. This initiative aims to enhance accessibility and mobility for patients in need, furthering the foundation’s commitment to supporting healthcare and promoting inclusivity. The distribution ceremonies were graced by various dignitaries and was graced by esteemed dignitaries Muhammad Saif, Additional Deputy Commissioner of Multan. The various MS of each hospital presided over the ceremonies, and at Nishtar Hospital, those present included Prof. Dr. Mehnaz Khakwani, Vice Chancellor of Nishtar Medical University and Hospital Multan;; Prof. Dr. Rashid Qamar Rao, Principal of Nishtar Medical University and Hospital Multan; Dr. Muhammad Kazim Khay, Medical Superintendent of Nishtar Hospital Multan; Dr. Muhammad Iqbal, Medical Superintendent of Ch Pervaiz Elahi Institute of Cardiology Multan; Dr. Abdul Wali, Secretary to VC; Muhammad Haneef, Member of Pakistan National Polio Plus Committee, Rotary International; Dr. Muhammad Zahid, AMS Purchase; Dr. Shahzaman, AMS M & R; and Dr. Ali Mehdi, AMS Burn Unit. These wheelchairs are part of Dawood Global Foundation’s initiative and mission to distribute 10,000 wheelchairs to hospitals and paraplegics and with this donation, the project crosses 3,650 wheelchairs donated and distributed to date.