Mayor announces joint preventive health initiative for Karachi

KARACHI: Karachi Mayor Barrister Murtaza Wahab has unveiled a strategic collaboration between Jinnah Sindh Medical University (JSMU), the National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases (NICVD), and Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) across all 25 towns, including the 14 hospitals and medical institutes under the KMC, to enhance preventive health services through local government resources and infrastructure.

The mayor also proposed that the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) enforce mandatory medical tests for individuals applying for or renewing their Computerized National Identity Cards (CNICs). This measure aims to proactively diagnose underlying health conditions as part of preventive healthcare initiatives.

The announcement was made during the inauguration of JSMU’s first free preventive cardiology clinic at its Landhi campus. This clinic is a collaborative effort involving NICVD and the Association of Pakistani-Descent Cardiologists of North America (APCNA).

The clinic's primary objective is to deliver preventive cardiac measures and essential healthcare services, mitigating the risk of cardiac diseases before they manifest.

Wahab lauded the establishment of the free preventive cardiology clinic at JSMU Landhi Campus, emphasizing its significance in improving access to healthcare facilities for the underprivileged community. He commended the university's dedication to public health, noting that such initiatives contribute to the development of a healthier society, ensuring universal access to basic healthcare services.

Prof Amjad Saraj Memon, Vice-Chancellor of JSMU, expressed commitment to the health of society and a healthier future. He stated, "It brings me great joy to announce that we are now providing free preventive cardiology services for the people of Landi."

Dr Javed Suleman, a distinguished alumnus of JSMU and prominent intervention cardiologist in the US, in his address highlighted the epidemic proportions of heart disease and said the treatment for heart disease can be expensive in countries like the United States. The preventive cardiology clinic represents a proactive step in addressing this health challenge.