ISLAMABAD: Federal Health Minister Mustafa Kamal has described healthcare as a national security issue, warning that Pakistan is at risk of becoming one of the countries most affected by various diseases unless urgent reforms are introduced.
Speaking at a press conference on genome profiling in Islamabad, the minister stressed the need for modern healthcare technologies, preventive medicine, and improved diagnostic facilities.
Warning Over Growing Disease Burden
Mustafa Kamal said Pakistan faces a serious health challenge despite the absence of any major nationwide epidemic.
“Healthcare is a national security issue. We are heading towards becoming number one in every disease,” he said.
He added that hospitals across the country are overcrowded with patients, indicating a widespread health crisis.
“There is no major epidemic in the country, yet our hospitals resemble those dealing with epidemic conditions. Our system is focused on disease rather than health,” he remarked.
Call for Modern Technology and Research
The health minister emphasized that Pakistan must prioritize advanced medical technologies and modern diagnostic systems.
According to him, many patients currently spend large amounts of money sending medical samples abroad for specialized testing.
“We are a nuclear power. We should have our own laboratories and advanced testing facilities,” he said.
He noted that the country spends between Rs200 billion and Rs300 billion annually on diseases that could potentially be prevented or diagnosed more effectively through better healthcare infrastructure.
Budget Constraints but Continued Commitment
Mustafa Kamal acknowledged the financial challenges facing the health sector, saying budget reductions have affected many government departments.
However, he maintained that the ministry remains committed to improving healthcare services despite limited resources.
“Budget cuts are continuing, but we will not give up,” he said.
Focus on Preventive Healthcare
The minister stressed that Pakistan must shift from a treatment-based system to a preventive healthcare model.
As part of that strategy, he announced plans to expand screening services across the country.
“We need to move towards healthcare rather than simply treating illnesses,” he said.
Thalassemia Screening Before Marriage
One of the key initiatives highlighted by the minister was the introduction of mandatory thalassemia screening before marriage.
He said the government is establishing screening centers and intends to make thalassemia testing a compulsory requirement for couples planning to marry.
Health experts have long argued that premarital screening can significantly reduce the number of children born with inherited blood disorders such as thalassemia.
Population Growth and Brain Drain Concerns
Mustafa Kamal also pointed to Pakistan’s rapidly growing population as a major challenge.
He noted that the country is projected to become the world’s fourth most populous nation by 2030, placing additional pressure on healthcare services and public resources.
The minister further expressed concern about the growing trend of brain drain, where skilled professionals leave the country in search of better opportunities abroad.
“Economic difficulties and limited resources are making brain drain a serious issue. No country can afford to lose its talented people on such a scale,” he said.
Need for Long-Term Reform
The minister concluded by emphasizing the importance of long-term planning, investment in medical infrastructure, and adoption of modern technologies to address Pakistan’s healthcare challenges.
About The Author
