Karachi, Professor Muhammad Saeed Qureshi, Vice-Chancellor of Dow University of Health Sciences, emphasized the need for intensified efforts to combat the spread of tuberculosis (TB) in Pakistan. Despite ongoing official and non-governmental initiatives, TB remains a significant health challenge in the country.

According to Dow University of Health Sciences, Professor Qureshi highlighted the urgency of the situation during the inaugural function of the Integrated TB Site for HIV, Hepatitis B&C at the Ojha Institute of Chest Diseases (OICD). He pointed out that a TB patient can potentially infect three out of ten healthy individuals, underlining the disease’s rapid transmission rate. The Integrated TB Site initiative is viewed as an effective step towards curbing the spread of TB.

Professor Qureshi also addressed the complications arising when a TB patient is co-infected with hepatitis B, C, or HIV/AIDS. The integration of free diagnosis and treatment facilities for these diseases under one roof at the OICD is a strategic move to manage this risk. He further stated that the biosafety level 3 lab at OICD has recently been upgraded, along with the introduction of other modern facilities.

Director of OICD, Professor Iftikhar Ahmed, speaking at the event, noted that establishing the integrated TB site marks a critical milestone. He stressed the importance of continuous funding for the sustainability of such projects, expressing gratitude towards Dow University philanthropists, the Commune Cable Disease Control of Sindh, and the World Health Organization for their support.

The event also recognized the contributions of several key individuals, including Deputy Director of OICD Dr. Ghulam Murtaza Soho, Dr. Niaz Hussain Soomro of Thoracic surgery at OICD, and other team members who have tirelessly worked towards this cause. Acknowledgments were also extended to various consultants and coordinators from the World Health Organization and the CDC.

The ceremony concluded with Vice-Chancellor Professor Muhammad Saeed Qureshi planting a sapling and presenting bouquets to the guests, symbolizing the growth and nurturing of the health sector’s efforts against TB.

The initiative by Dow University and the OICD marks a significant step in addressing the challenge of TB in Pakistan, with the integration of services expected to make a substantial impact on controlling the disease’s spread.