Health and Family Welfare Minister Sardar Md. Sakhawat Husain today said the government will provide the highest level of support to thalassemia patients. He made this announcement while addressing the Blood Donor Recognition 2026 ceremony organized by the Bangladesh Thalassemia Samity (BTS) at the Institution of Engineers, Bangladesh (IEB) in Ramna. Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s spouse and Ziaur Rahman Foundation Vice-President, renowned cardiologist Dr Zubaida Rahman, attended the event as the chief guest.
The event was held to recognize and express gratitude to voluntary blood donors for their invaluable contributions. Highlighting the contributions of blood donors, the health minister described repeated blood donations to save patients' lives as a noble humanitarian initiative. Two donors, one with 41 donations and another with 38, were recognized for their efforts.
Recalling the healthcare vision of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, Sakhawat encouraged people to adopt healthier food habits to raise public awareness, improve lifestyles, and build a healthier nation. Emphasizing the importance of disease prevention, the minister noted that critical illnesses—including cancer, kidney disease, and liver cancer—are increasing at an alarming rate in rural areas. He said the government is giving highest importance to preventive measures, as prevention is preferable to relying solely on conventional treatment.
Awards were presented to individual blood donors and various organizations involved in blood donation activities. Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) Mayor Abdus Salam, Executive Director of Ziaur Rahman Foundation and cancer specialist Professor Dr. Farhad Halim Donar also spoke on the occasion while BTS President Engineer MA Matin was in the chair. Professor Dr. Harun Al Rashid, President of the Doctors Association of Bangladesh (DAB), and Engineer Riazul Islam, Chairman of the Rajdhani Unnayan Kartripakkha (RAJUK) were also present.
