Tue, 21-Oct-2025

Who is Captain Iman Durrani? Meet the inspiring female officer of Pakistan Army

Who is Captain Iman Durrani? Meet the inspiring female officer of Pakistan Army

Captain Iman Durrani is a young and competent officer of the Pakistan Army. Trained at the prestigious Pakistan Military Academy (PMA), she is known for her strong sense of discipline, passionate patriotism, and powerful speeches. Even during her time at the academy, she stood out for her dedication and leadership. Today, she serves not only … Read more

PMA strongly condemns Indian attack on civilians

PMA

KARACHI: Pakistan Medical Association (PMA) strongly condemns recent cowardly attacks on innocent civilians perpetrated by Indian forces. The PMA views these acts as abhorrent violations of human rights and international law. We express profound grief for the victims and extend heartfelt condolences to their families. While firmly condemning this aggression, the PMA unequivocally affirms its … Read more

Dr Qaiser Sajjad honored lifetime achievement award

Dr Qaiser Sajjad

KARACHI: Pakistan Medical Association (PMA) Honorary Secretary and ENT Specialist Dr Qaiser Sajjad has honoured lifetime achievement award. Jinnah Sindh Medical University (JSMU), a renowned medical institution in Pakistan, honored seven distinguished leaders of Pakistani healthcare with Lifetime Achievement Awards. The awards recognized JSMU alumni whose decades of surgical innovation, clinical excellence, and medical education … Read more

PMA strongly condemns sexual assault of polio worker

PMA

KARACHI: Pakistan Medical Association (PMA) expresses its strongest condemnation of the recent incident of sexual assault on a lady polio worker in Jacobabad, Sindh.

The horrifying attack on a frontline healthcare worker who was carrying out her duty to protect children from a debilitating disease is not only a heinous crime but also an attack on the entire healthcare system.

The safety and security of healthcare workers, especially those involved in critical immunization campaigns, such as polio eradication, must be ensured at all costs.

The PMA demands that the Government of Sindh take immediate and concrete steps to provide foolproof security for all polio teams operating in the province. It is imperative that those responsible for this despicable act are swiftly apprehended and brought to justice to send a strong message that such crimes will not be tolerated.

The PMA stands in solidarity with the victim of this horrific incident and her family during this difficult time. We call upon the authorities to prioritize the safety of healthcare workers and take all necessary measures to prevent such incidents from happening in the future.

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First polio case reported in Islamabad after 16 years

Pakistan reaches 40 Polio cases in 2024

KARACHI: Another case of polio has been reported in Pakistan this year, after which the number of polio cases this year has increased to 17.

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), polio virus has been confirmed in a child from Islamabad’s Union Council 4, after which a polio case has reported after about 16 years in federal capital.

According to the NIH the presence of polio virus has been found in the June environmental samples of the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi.

On the other hand, Prime Minister’s Focal Person for Polio Eradication Ayesha Raza Farooq said that unfortunately another Pakistani child has been affected by polio. She said the government has made a comprehensive road map to stop the spread of polio.

Regarding polio cases in the country, Coordinator National Emergency Operations Center Anwar ul Haque said that we are intensifying efforts to deliver polio vaccine to every child.

From September 9-13, the Polio Programme will launch a large-scale vaccination campaign across 115 districts to vaccinate 33 million children under the age of five.

Vaccinators will go door-to-door to deliver the oral polio vaccine (OPV), to reach children in hard-to-reach and underserved areas.

On the other hand, Pakistan Medical Association (PMA) is deeply shocked about the recent surge in polio cases reported in Pakistan, particularly in the capital city of Islamabad. As the leading voice of healthcare professionals in the country, PMA is alarmed by the re-emergence of this preventable disease and its impact on the health and well-being of our children.

Dr. Abdul Ghafoor Shoro, Secretary General of PMA, has emphasized the urgent need for increased vaccination efforts and public awareness campaigns to address the growing threat of polio in Pakistan.

Dr. Shoro stated, “The recent polio cases in Islamabad are explicit reminder of the importance of vaccination and the need for a coordinated response to protect our children from this debilitating disease.”

PMA calls on the government, healthcare providers, and the public to prioritize polio eradication efforts and ensure that every child receives the necessary vaccinations to prevent the spread of the virus. Vaccination campaigns must be intensified, and community engagement initiatives must be strengthened to reach every child, especially in high-risk areas.

Dr. Shoro reiterated PMA’s commitment to supporting polio eradication efforts and working collaboratively with government agencies, international partners, and the community to achieve a polio-free Pakistan.

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4th China-Pakistan Medical conference held in Shanghai

Shanghai

KARACHI: 4th China-Pakistan Medical Conference held from June 28 to 30, 2024, in Shanghai was a resounding success, bringing together medical professionals from both countries to exchange knowledge, expertise, and best practices in the field of healthcare.

The 55 member delegation of Pakistan Medical Association (PMA), lead by Dr. Abdul Ghafoor Shoro, Secretary General PMA, participated in the conference.

The three-day conference saw the participants from Pakistan, engaged in insightful discussions, presentations, and workshops covering a wide range of medical topics.

This collaborative platform provided a unique opportunity for professionals from both nations to learn from each other and enhance their skills.

Dr Abdul Ghafoor Shoro, in his opening remarks, emphasized the importance of international cooperation in advancing healthcare initiatives and fostering strong professional relationships between China and Pakistan. He praised the efforts of all attendees in promoting medical excellence and innovation.

The conference featured keynote speeches by, Prof Jia Weiping, Prof Syed Tipu Sultan, Prof Ashraf Nizami   Prof Yao ke, Dr. Qazi Wasiq, Prof. Chen Dechang and Prof Shahid Shamim, from China and Pakistan panel discussions, and networking sessions that allowed participants to share their research findings, clinical experiences, and technological advancements in the medical field.

The successful outcome of the 4th China-Pakistan Medical Conference underlines the commitment of both nations to strengthening healthcare collaboration and improving the quality of medical services for the benefit of patients in the region.

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PMA expresses concern on dengue related 14 deaths in Turbat

Punjab reports 149 new dengue cases in 24 hours

KARACHI: Pakistan Medical Association (PMA) expresses deep concern over the recent dengue outbreak in Turbat, Baluchistan, which has claimed the lives of 14 individuals so far.

According to news reports, the dengue fever outbreak has spread rapidly in the region, putting the local population at risk.

The Pakistan medical Association urges the provincial and federal authorities to take immediate and effective measures to control the situation and provide adequate medical facilities and resources to the affected areas.

“The loss of 14 precious lives due to the dengue outbreak in Turbat is truly saddening,”. We call upon the government to act swiftly and allocate the necessary resources to combat this public health crisis and ensure the safety and well-being of the people in the affected regions.”

The PMA also appeals to the local community to cooperate with the authorities and follow preventive measures, such as clearing stagnant water, using mosquito repellents, and seeking prompt medical attention in case of fever or other symptoms.

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PMA remains cradle of leadership, center for excellence for cadets : CJCSC

PMA

RAWALPINDI: Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC) General Sahir Shamshad Mirza said since its inception, Pakistan Military Academy (PMA) has remained the cradle of leadership and center of excellence for cadets joining the premier institution of Army.

He was addressing as chief guest at the passing out parade of cadets of 149th PMA Long Course, 14th Mujahid Course, 68th Integrated Course and 23rd Lady Cadet Course held at Pakistan Military Academy (PMA) Kakul where 49 Cadets from friendly countries were also among the passed out cadets, an Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) news release said.

While Chief of the Turkish General Staff, General Metin Gürak was Guest of Honour on the occasion. On the occasion, General Sahir Shamshad Mirza said, “Over the years, PMA has also trained scores of foreign cadets whose brilliant performance in their respective Armies stands testament to the professional ethos of PMA. Today’s parade serves as an illustrious example of military discipline at its finest and reflects the sterling ethos of the Academy and Pakistan Army alike.”

The CJCSC reviewed the parade and along with the Turkish Chief of General Staff gave away awards to the distinguished cadets. The coveted Sword of Honour was awarded to Academy Senior Under Officer Muhammad Nauman Abdullah and President’s Gold medal to Company Senior Under Officer Muhammad Abdullah Javed of 149th PMA Long Course.

The Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee Overseas Gold Medal was awarded to Friendly Country Senior Under Officer Fahad Bin Aqil Al Towarqi Al Fallaj from Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The COAS Cane was awarded to course under officer Ilyas Khan of 14th Mujahid Course.

The Commandant’s Canes were awarded to course Junior under officer Danish Sattar of 68th Integrated Course and course under officer Sher Bano of 23rd Lady Cadet Course.

The Chairman JCSC felicitated the passing out cadets and their proud parents on the successful completion of their training at PMA.

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PMA expresses concern over detection of polio virus

Afghanistan's Polio Vaccination Initiative Suspended by Taliban

KARACHI: Pakistan Medical Association (PMA) strongly expresses its distress over the recent detection of the polio virus type 1(WPV1) in six districts in the country and Pakistan’s alarming designation as the second most polluted country in the world.

The PMA believes that these issues pose significant threats to the health and well-being of the nation. The recent detection of samples of the polio virus in six districts in Pakistan has raised serious concerns within the medical community. As an organization committed to promoting public health, the PMA recognizes the urgent need for immediate and effective action to contain the outbreak.

It urges the government and relevant health authorities to prioritize the vaccination campaign and ensure its comprehensive coverage across the affected regions.

The PMA also appeals to parents and caregivers to cooperate with health workers and have their children vaccinated against polio to safeguard the nation’s future generations.

Pakistan’s ranking as the second most polluted country in the world in 2023 is an alarming revelation and demands immediate attention from relevant authorities.

The PMA emphasizes the need for decisive measures to mitigate the adverse effects of air pollution and protect the health of the population. It urges the government to enforce stricter regulations on industrial emissions, vehicular pollution, and solid waste management practices.

Additionally, the PMA encourages citizens to adopt sustainable practices and reduce their carbon footprint to contribute to a cleaner environment for all. The detection of the polio virus in multiple districts and Pakistan’s ranking as the second most polluted country are indicators of the challenges we face in safeguarding public health.

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PMA concerned over reporting of polio case from Balochistan

PMA

KARACHI: Pakistan Medical Association (PMA) is very much concerned about a Polio case reported from Dera Bugti district of Balochistan.

This marks the first polio case reported in the country in 2024. It highlights the urgent need for enhanced vaccination efforts and increased public awareness.

It is disheartening to see the first polio case which indicates the gaps in our immunization efforts and underscores the importance of ensuring that every child receives the polio vaccine. PMA urged parents to cooperate with healthcare workers and vaccinate their children.

Polio is a highly infectious disease that mainly affects children under the age of five. It causes paralysis, permanent disability, and, in severe cases, can be fatal. Despite substantial progress in the fight against polio, Pakistan remains one of the two countries where the disease is still endemic.

Hon. Secretary General, PMA(Centre) Dr Abdul Ghafoor Shoro emphasized that this recent case serves as a wake-up call for health authorities, frontline healthcare workers, and communities across Pakistan. The only way to protect children from polio is through vaccination. Consistent and widespread immunization campaigns are critical to eradicating this disease once and for all.

He calls upon the government, healthcare authorities, civil society organizations, and religious leaders to join forces and renew their commitment to the polio eradication campaign. Together, they must work towards ensuring that every child in Pakistan is protected against this preventable disease.

Furthermore, the Dr Shoro emphasized the role of public awareness in addressing vaccine hesitancy and dispelling misconceptions surrounding polio immunization. Efforts must be made to inform communities about the safety and effectiveness of the vaccine, encouraging them to fully participate in vaccination campaigns.

Vaccination efforts must be intensified while simultaneously ensuring the safety of healthcare workers and communities.

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PMA condemns issuance of arrest warrants of health employees

PMA

KARACHI: The Pakistan Medical Association (PMA) has strongly condemned the issuance of arrest warrants against 267 employees of the Sindh Health Department by Returning Officer (RO), PC-110 South. These employees allegedly did not attend their election duties. The association has deemed this act as unjust and unreasonable.

Hon. Secretary General, Pakistan Medical Association (Centre), Dr Abdul Ghafoor Shoro believes that issuing arrest warrants is very unjust and excessive. The concerned authorities should immediately withdraw the warrants issued against healthcare professionals.

He stresses upon authorities to avoid assigning election duties to healthcare providers. We are extremely concerned about the impact this could have on the already strained healthcare system in Sindh.

Dr Shoro emphasized the dedication and commitment of healthcare professionals in serving the public and stated that they deserve respect and appreciation for their tireless efforts. We urge the authorities to address the issue in a fair and just manner, taking into consideration the challenging circumstances faced by healthcare workers.

He also appealed to the government and relevant authorities to ensure the safety, security, and well-being of healthcare professionals, especially during these testing times.

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Pakistan faces unprecedented health crises: PMA  

PMA  

KARACHI: Pakistan faces an unprecedented health crisis, compounded by its status as the fifth most populous country globally.

The World Health Organization’s recent ranking places Pakistan at 124th out of 169 countries, sounding a clarion call for an immediate revision of the nation’s health system.

The “Health of the Nation” report for 2024, presented by the Pakistan Medical Association (PMA), outlines a grim state of healthcare in the country, necessitating urgent and comprehensive reforms. Government has approved multiple drug price hikes, affecting over 80,000 drugs and burdening the populace.

These statistics shared by Secretary General PMA Centre, Dr Abdul Ghafoor Shoro during a press conference held at PMA House. Dr Muhammad Shahid Shamim, Dr Vasdev and  Dr Shahid Sami were also present on this occasion.

The report urges government intervention to address this crisis, emphasizing the severe impact on public health. Pakistan faces a significant burden of hepatitis B and C, with 15 million affected individuals. Lack of prevention, testing, and treatment resources, along with the presence of quacks, contribute to the rising number of cases.

The report advocates for better control measures, including vaccinations, to curb the spread of these deadly viral diseases.

Unsafe drinking water is a major health concern, causing a high number of deaths. Contaminated water contributes to 40% of deaths nationwide, leading to waterborne diseases, with diarrhea being a leading cause of infant mortality.

The report emphasizes the need for addressing water quality issues to improve public health. Pakistan experiences a rapid rise in HIV infections, with 63,202 registered cases. Limited testing capacity, unsafe practices like syringe reuse, and poor awareness contribute to the spread of HIV.

The report calls for increased testing, awareness, and access to lifesaving treatment to combat the HIV/AIDS crisis. Cancer is a growing concern in Pakistan, particularly among women, with breast cancer being the most common.

The report emphasizes the need for awareness and preventive measures. Coronary heart diseases remain a significant health challenge, with high mortality rates.

Pakistan ranks third globally in the prevalence of diabetes, with a staggering 30.8%. The report stresses the severity of the diabetes situation, calling for concerted efforts to address this health crisis

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PMA expresses concern over medical college fee hike

PMA
  • Dr Shoro said sudden increase in tuition fees poses challenges for students.
  • He believes increasing cost of medical education will have adverse effects.
  • He urged government to closely monitor and regulate tuition fee increases.

KARACHI: Pakistan Medical Association (PMA) expresses grave concern over the unprecedented increase in fees of medical colleges in the country.

Hon. Secretary General, of Pakistan Medical Association (Centre), Dr Abdul Ghafoor Shoro in his statement said this sudden and intense escalation of tuition fees poses significant challenges for aspiring medical students and their families, as it significantly limits access to quality medical education.

He believes that the increasing cost of medical education will have adverse effects on the healthcare system in the long run. With higher tuition fees, only those from affluent backgrounds will be able to pursue a career in medicine, resulting in a lack of diversity and representation among medical professionals.

“This could exacerbate existing healthcare disparities, particularly in underserved areas and marginalized communities. The financial constraints may also deter medical graduates from pursuing specialties that are essential for the country’s healthcare needs, such as primary care and rural medicine” he added.

PMA recognizes the need for medical institutions to maintain financial sustainability and provide necessary resources for training future healthcare professionals. However, this should not be accomplished at the expense of depriving deserving students of the opportunity to pursue their dreams and contribute to society’s well-being.

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PMA condemns attack on Karachi Central Hospital 

PMA
  • PMA strongly condemned this heinous act of violence.
  • Miscreants brutally tortured watchman and tied him with ropes.
  • Attacker ransacked computers, laptops and batteries of solar system.

KARACHI: Pakistan Medical Association (PMA) express deep concern regarding the last night appalling attack on Karachi Central Hospital, which has left the entire medical community in a state of shock and distress.

On behalf of all the members of organization, we strongly condemn this heinous act of violence and call for immediate action to ensure justice is served.

The miscreants entered into the hospital by breaking the main gate last night between 1:00am to 2:00am. They brutally tortured our watchman, tied him with ropes and ransacked the valuables like computers, laptops and batteries of the solar system. They also destroyed the C.C.TV system of the hospital.

The area police attitude after the incident was very indifferent. They are hesitant to lodge FIR, which is the basic right of every victim.

The attack on Karachi Central Hospital is not just an attack on the medical facility but an attack on the principle of providing healthcare services to the public without fear or prejudice.

Karachi Central Hospital, a project of Pakistan Medical Association, is providing services to under privileged people free/at lowest rate since 2018 as compare to other private facilities.

Hospitals are supposed to be sanctuaries of safety and healing, and any assault on such places is an affront to humanity. It is with great sadness that we witness these acts of violence continuing to target healthcare infrastructure, leading to loss of life and jeopardizing the lives of many innocent individuals.

PM demand that the authorities responsible for maintaining law and order take swift and decisive action to identify and apprehend the culprits behind this attack.

It is of utmost importance that a thorough investigation is conducted with no compromises made in holding those responsible accountable for their actions. This act of violence must not go unpunished under any circumstances.

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PMA concerned over medical colleges fee hike  

PMA
  • PMA believes this decision will have serious consequences.
  • Dr Shoro said medical education is already expensive in Pakistan.
  •  He believes fee hike should only be considered after careful analysis.

KARACHI: Pakistan Medical Association (PMA), a representative body of doctors, has expressed concerns about the recent statement made by the Sindh Health Minister in some newspapers regarding a 50 percent increase in medical college fees.

Hon. Secretary General, Pakistan Medical Association (Centre), Dr. Abdul Ghafoor Shoro in his statement , said PMA believes that this decision will have serious consequences for medical students and their families in the province.

He said medical education is already expensive in Pakistan, and this increase in fees will make it even more difficult for students from low-income families to pursue their dream of becoming doctors. The PMA believes that this decision will further widen the gap between the rich and poor and will limit access to medical education for deserving students.

Dr Shoro points out that the quality of medical education in Pakistan is already under scrutiny, with concerns about the inadequate training of medical students and the quality of healthcare services being offered to patients. He said increase in fees without any improvement in the quality of education or healthcare facilities will only exacerbate the situation further.

He urged the Sindh government to reconsider its decision and work towards improving the quality and accessibility of medical education in the province.

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Doctors to hold rallies in solidarity with medics of Gaza

Gaza
  • PIMA, PMA and YDA jointly declared as nationwide Gaza Medics Day.
  • Health professionals to organize rallies and to pay tribute to medics.
  • Israel continued airstrikes around Al-Shifa and central hospital of Gaza.

KARACHI: Doctors and allied healthcare professionals will come together on November 10th(Friday) across the country in hospitals and institutions to express their support for the doctors and healthcare workers in Gaza who are persistently providing medical care under extremely challenging conditions, regardless of the risks to their lives.

The Pakistan Islamic Medical Association (PIMA), the Pakistan Medical Association (PMA), and the Young Doctors Association (YDA) have jointly declared as nationwide Gaza Medics Day. They have called upon healthcare professionals to organize rallies from 10 to 11 AM in various cities and pay tribute to the doctors and medical workers in Gaza.

The central president of PIMA, Dr. Abdul Aziz Memon, expressed serious concerns about the public health care situation in Gaza, describing it as extremely alarming. He stated that 192 medical professionals have been killed in Gaza so far. Since October 7, 18 hospitals and 40 primary health care units have gone out of service due to the Israeli bombing, or the lack of fuel and medicine to keep the facilities from operating.

Israel is unambiguously expanding its war and targeting hospitals in Gaza Strip, which is a war crime and clear violation of international laws and the Geneva Convention.

Israel has continued its airstrikes around Al-Shifa, the central hospital of Gaza strip, and in recent days, even medical convoy was also targeted at the main entrance of the hospital. So far, 40 ambulances have been destroyed. This situation not only violates international laws but also signifies a humanitarian crisis.

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PMA urges Sindh govt to invest in primary healthcare system   

PMA
  • He said improving healthcare system will ensure timely medical attention.
  • Dr Ghafoor Shoro said primary healthcare system is backbone of health sector.
  • He said govt first improve basic system instead of investing in high-cost machinery.

KARACHI: Pakistan Medical Association (PMA) has emphasized the need for improving the primary healthcare system in the country instead of investing in high-cost machinery for tertiary care without an improvement in the former.

Hon. Secretary General, Pakistan Medical Association (Centre), Dr. Abdul Ghafoor Shoro, said as an organization that promotes healthcare advancement, PMA acknowledges that tertiary care is important, but it believes that the government’s focus should be on the primary healthcare system. Strengthening the primary healthcare system will ensure that people receive timely and adequate medical attention without the need for expensive tertiary care.

He said primary healthcare system is the backbone of the health sector and caters 70- 80% of healthcare in Pakistan. Unfortunately it is weak, and we need to focus on improving it before investing in tertiary care.

Dr Shoro said Pakistan’s and specially in Sindh primary healthcare system lacks basic facilities, and equipment, which forces people to seek treatment at costly tertiary care centers. The current infant mortality rate for Pakistan in 2023 is 55.777 deaths per 1000 live births and 154 women die for every 100,000 live birth, Vector-borne diseases such as malaria, dengue, acute watery diarrhea, cholera, skin diseases, and malnutrition are rising. maternal mortality and pregnancy-related deaths are more prevalent in Sindh  Investing in high-cost machinery without first addressing this issue would be a waste of resources.

PMA has recommended that the Sindh government invest in primary healthcare centers, rural clinics, and basic health units. Providing basic health facilities, such as diagnostic labs, clinics, and trained medical staff, will help alleviate the burden on tertiary centers.

PMA is committed to working with the government to improve the healthcare system in Sindh. Our message is clear – let us focus on improving primary healthcare before investing in expensive equipment.

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Poliovirus confirms in 11 more environmental samples  

Poliovirus samples detected in 16 European countries
  • Polio virus detected in five environmental samples of KP.
  • The virus found in Chaman , Pishin and Quetta , Balochistan.
  • Polio virus was also confirmed in two sewage samples of Karachi.

ISLAMABAD: The presence of polio virus was confirmed in the environmental samples collected from eleven districts of the country.

The Regional Reference Laboratory for Polio Eradication at the National Institute of Health Islamabad has confirmed the detection of Type-1 Wild Poliovirus (WPV1) in 11 environmental (sewage) samples collected in October 2023 (four from Peshawar, three from Quetta Block, two from Karachi and one each from Bannu& Lahore)

The polio virus was found in environmental samples from four different areas of Chaman, Pishin and Quetta in Balochistan. Similarly, virus detected in Bannu in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and four in Peshawar.

Polio virus was also found in the environmental samples of Keamari and District Central of Karachi in Sindh and Gulshan e Ravi in ​​Lahore in Punjab.

In Pakistan, polio virus has been confirmed in 54 environmental samples so far, while the fourth case of polio was also reported in Karachi couple of days ago.

On the other hand, Pakistan Medical Association (PMA) is very much concerned over the rise in positive environmental samples for Polio.

According to the reports 11 new environmental polio samples have been detected this month in seven cities . The detection of environmental sample are believed positive, when the polio virus is detected in sewage water.

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PMA demands re-conduct of MDCAT exam

PMA
  • Dr Shoro said it is important to ensure transparency in exam.
  • He said irregularities happened during exam truly disheartening.
  • He hoped PMDC will consider students demand seriously.

KARACHI: Pakistan Medical Association (PMA) expresses serious concern over irregularities during the recent Medical & Dental College Admission Test( MDCAT) exam for medical admission in Pakistan. Many students reported issues such as technical glitches, cheating, and discrepancies in the grading system.

Secretary General, Pakistan Medical Association (Centre), Dr. Abdul Ghafoor Shoro in his statement said it is important to ensure fairness and transparency in the exam process to maintain the credibility and quality of medical education in Pakistan.

He said irregularities, malpractices and technical glitches that happened during the said exam were truly disheartening, and it has caused great anxiety and confusion among the aspiring medical students.

Secretary General PMA said as a student who took the MDCAT, everyone know that it is an essential and competitive exam that will determine the future of thousands of students who aspire to become doctors or dentists. However, the current situation has raised questions about the reliability and fairness of the examination.

He said there have been reports of incorrect and incomplete question papers, insufficient time to answer the questions, online cheating and other technical glitches which led to frustration and loss of confidence among the students. Even in the official statement released by the administration, it was acknowledged that there were problems experienced during the examination.

Dr Shoro demanded to re-conduct of the MDCAT exam. It will help restore the confidence of students and ensure that everyone has an equal and fair chance to demonstrate their abilities.

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PMA expresses concern over surge in Congo cases in KP

Congo
  • 14 Congo fever cases detected in KP.
  • 4 people lost their lives in one and half month.
  • PMA demands urgent action to contain outbreak.

KARACHI: The Pakistan Medical Association (PMA) expresses deep concern regarding the recent surge in Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever (CCHF) cases in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, with 14 reported infections and four fatalities within the last one and a half months.

Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever is a highly infectious disease transmitted to humans through tick bites or contact with infected animals, such as livestock. Symptoms range from mild flu-like conditions to severe, life-threatening illness, including internal bleeding. Immediate medical attention is necessary to ensure effective treatment and prevent further spread of the disease.

The PMA calls upon government health authorities and relevant departments to take urgent action to contain the outbreak, initiate robust preventive measures, and educate the public on precautions to minimize the risk of contracting the virus.

The doctor’s body urge the government to allocate sufficient resources to combat this alarming health crisis.

Proactive engagement with healthcare professionals, including doctors and nurses, is crucial to identifying and managing cases promptly. Enhanced training programs, provision of personal protective equipment (PPE), and rapid diagnostic testing are essential to ensure the safety and well-being of healthcare workers who are at the frontline of this battle.

Furthermore, community awareness campaigns should be initiated to educate citizens about the potential dangers of Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever and essential preventive measures. These campaigns should emphasize the necessity of avoiding direct contact with infected animals, using protective clothing and repellents in areas known for tick infestations, and promptly seeking medical help when experiencing symptoms.

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PMA deeply concerned over detection of Afghan origin polio virus

detection
  • This development highlights the need for immediate action.
  • Dr Shoro urges government to take immediate measures.
  • He demanded for launching robust vaccination campaigns,

KARACHI: The Pakistan Medical Association (PMA) is deeply concerned about the recent detection of the Afghan-origin polio virus in District Rawalpindi, Pakistan.

This development highlights the need for immediate action to prevent the spread of the virus and protect the population from further outbreaks.

Hon. Secretary General, Pakistan Medical Association (Centre), Dr. Abdul Ghafoor Shoro, urges the government of Pakistan to take immediate and effective measures to contain the spread of polio in the affected areas. This includes launching robust vaccination campaigns, ensuring access to quality vaccines, and strengthening surveillance systems to detect and respond to any new cases.

He also stresses the importance of cross-border cooperation with Afghanistan to address the issue at its root. Unfortunately endemic wild poliovirus type 1 remains in two countries: Pakistan and Afghanistan and is eradicated from the rest of the world. Both countries must work together to enhance vaccination coverage and implement strict measures to prevent the movement of polio-infected individuals between the two nations.

Dr Shoro said polio is a highly infectious disease that primarily affects children under the age of five. It can cause paralysis and, in severe cases, can be fatal. Pakistan has made significant progress in its efforts to eradicate polio but the recent detection of the Afghan-origin virus emphasizes the fragility of these gains.

He calls upon the government, healthcare professionals, and the general public to remain vigilant and actively participate in polio immunization campaigns. It is crucial to ensure that all children receive the necessary doses of the polio vaccine to prevent the spread of the virus and protect future generations.

Secretary General, PMA, also encourages community leaders, religious scholars, and advocacy groups to play an active role in dispelling myths and misconceptions surrounding polio vaccination. By uniting efforts, we can overcome the challenges posed by polio and work towards a polio-free Pakistan.

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Hepatitis is global health challenge: PMA

health
  • Hepatitis affects millions of people worldwide.
  • PMA recognizes importance of addressing this public health issue.
  • 350 million people are living with hepatitis globally

KARACHI: The Pakistan Medical Association (PMA) Karachi, joins hands with global health organizations in observing World Hepatitis Day.

With the theme “One Life One Liver,” this year’s campaign aims to raise awareness about hepatitis, promote early diagnosis, and advocate for timely access to treatment and prevention services.

Hepatitis is a global health challenge that affects millions of people worldwide, including a significant number of individuals in Pakistan. As a leading medical association in the country, PMA recognizes the importance of addressing this public health issue and working towards its elimination.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 350 million people are living with viral hepatitis globally, and in Pakistan, it is estimated that around 12 million people are affected. Hepatitis can lead to severe liver diseases, including liver cirrhosis and liver cancer, and is responsible for a substantial number of preventable deaths every year.

The Pakistan Medical Association is committed to taking proactive measures to combat hepatitis and reduce its burden on our society. As part of our initiatives for World Hepatitis Day.

PMA pledges to:-raise Awareness, encourage testing and early diagnosis, advocate for accessible treatments, support vaccination efforts, and foster collaboration.

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PMA deeply concerned over warning issued by HDA

PMA

This ban on import can put our health system into crisis Our health delivery system is already in shambles PMA demanded appropriate measures. KARACHI: The Pakistan Medical Association (PMA) is deeply concerned over the warning issued by the Healthcare Devices Association (HDA) that there could be serious disruption of medical and surgical treatment facilities across … Read more

Labor contract at U.S. West Coast ports expires

West Coast

Contract expires for more than 22,000 U.S. West Coast port workers. The agreement covers 29 Pacific Coast ports stretching from California to Washington State. Normal operations will continue at the ports until an agreement can be reached, groups say. The talks are being closely watched by industry and the White House. Biden met with the … Read more