Punjab Enforces Mandatory Thalassemia and Genetic Disorder Screening for Student Admissions

In a significant move to combat hereditary diseases, the Punjab Assembly has passed the Thalassemia Prevention Act 2025, mandating genetic screening for all students seeking admission to educational institutions across the province. This legislation applies to public and private schools, colleges, and religious seminaries, aiming to identify carriers of genetic disorders like thalassemia early and reduce their prevalence.​

Key Provisions of the Thalassemia Prevention Act 2025

• Mandatory Screening: Students must undergo testing for thalassemia and other genetic disorders, submitting their results with admission forms.​
• Confidential Data Handling: Laboratories are required to report test results to the Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB) within 10 days, ensuring secure data management and strict confidentiality. Unauthorized disclosure of medical information will lead to legal consequences.​
• Support for Underprivileged Families: The government will provide free testing for students from low-income backgrounds and offer counseling services to those diagnosed with genetic conditions.​
• Advisory Council Formation: An advisory council will oversee the implementation of the Act, recommend testing standards, approve laboratories, and suggest the issuance of special health cards for diagnosed individuals.​

Public Health Impact

Beta thalassemia is the most prevalent genetic disorder in Pakistan, with approximately 6% of the population carrying the gene. Consanguineous marriages contribute to the high incidence of such disorders. By implementing mandatory screening, the Punjab government aims to reduce the long-term medical and economic burden on families and the healthcare system

Implementation Timeline

The Act will come into effect immediately upon receiving the Governor’s approval, making genetic screening a prerequisite for student admissions in Punjab.​

This initiative reflects Punjab’s commitment to proactive healthcare measures, emphasizing the importance of early detection and prevention of genetic disorders to safeguard future generations.