Pakistan makes thalassemia test mandatory before marriage in landmark health law

ISLAMABAD: In a move that could reshape the future of public health in Pakistan, the National Assembly has passed the Mandatory Thalassemia Screening Bill 2025, introducing compulsory thalassemia testing for couples before marriage.

The legislation marks a significant step in the country’s battle against thalassemia, a hereditary blood disorder that affects thousands of families and places a heavy burden on the healthcare system.

Under the new law, both the bride and groom must undergo a thalassemia screening test before their marriage can be registered. The measure aims to ensure that couples are aware of their carrier status and the potential risk of passing the genetic disorder to their children.

Strict penalties for non-compliance

The legislation also introduces strict accountability for marriage registrars. If a Nikah registrar conducts or registers a marriage without verifying the required thalassemia test, their license may be revoked and they could face a fine of up to Rs100,000.

Lawmakers say the measure is designed to ensure that the law is implemented effectively and that premarital screening becomes a standard practice across the country.

Bill introduced by Sharmila Faruqui

The bill was introduced in the National Assembly by Sharmila Faruqui, a member of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP). During the parliamentary session, a proposed amendment by Naima Kishwar of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (F) was presented but ultimately rejected by lawmakers.

Supporters of the bill emphasized that the primary objective is to prevent the spread of thalassemia and protect future generations from a life-long genetic disease.

Pakistan’s growing thalassemia crisis

Health experts warn that Pakistan is facing a serious and persistent thalassemia challenge.

Currently, an estimated 100,000 to 120,000 children in Pakistan are living with thalassemia major, a severe form of the disease that requires lifelong blood transfusions and continuous medical care to survive.

Every year, approximately 5,000 to 8,000 babies are born with thalassemia major, placing immense emotional and financial strain on families and healthcare facilities.

Experts estimate that 5 to 7 percent of Pakistan’s population—roughly 10 to 13 million people—are silent carriers of the disease. Although carriers typically do not show symptoms, they can unknowingly pass the genetic mutation to their children.

The role of cousin marriages

Medical specialists say that one of the major factors contributing to the high prevalence of thalassemia in Pakistan is the high rate of cousin marriages, which ranges from 60 to 70 percent in many communities.

When two carriers marry, the risk of having a child with thalassemia major increases significantly. Public health experts therefore consider premarital screening one of the most effective strategies for reducing new cases of the disease.

A step toward prevention

Advocates believe the new law could mark a turning point in Pakistan’s fight against thalassemia by encouraging awareness, early testing, and responsible decision-making among couples planning marriage.

If implemented effectively nationwide, the legislation could significantly reduce the number of children born with thalassemia major in the coming years, helping protect families from a lifelong medical struggle.

Public health experts say the success of the initiative will ultimately depend on awareness campaigns, accessible screening facilities, and strong enforcement mechanisms.

For thousands of families affected by the disease, the passage of the Mandatory Thalassemia Screening Bill 2025 represents not just a new law—but a potential pathway toward a healthier generation in Pakistan.

---

Stay informed, stay healthy

CLICK HERE TO JOIN Medical News Pakistan on WhatsApp for the latest health insights, diabetes research updates, and expert tips straight to your phone.