The Punjab government has decided to launch a province-wide public awareness campaign aimed at preventing deadly diseases, with Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif set to personally lead the initiative.
The campaign will focus on educating citizens about prevention and treatment of life-threatening illnesses, while also promoting early detection and timely medical care.
Chairing a special meeting in Lahore, the chief minister directed authorities to take necessary measures to curb the spread of deadly and infectious diseases. She also instructed officials to ensure strict implementation of standard operating procedures (SOPs) in government hospitals, particularly to control epidemics and rapidly spreading illnesses.
The Punjab Healthcare Commission has been tasked with monitoring compliance of health SOPs in private hospitals and clinics. Additionally, authorities have been directed to take legal action against illegal and unqualified medical practitioners operating across the province.
During the meeting, it was also decided to launch the “Chief Minister Punjab Disease Prevention Program,” which will include prevention initiatives for major diseases such as Diabetes, Tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS, and Hepatitis. The chief minister granted in-principle approval for the program.
Maryam Nawaz emphasized that raising public awareness about deadly diseases is essential, adding that understanding early symptoms can play a critical role in prevention. She further said that healthcare efforts should not only focus on treatment but also on restoring hope and improving patients’ quality of life.
Secretary Health and Population Nadia Saqib briefed the meeting on the proposed measures and implementation strategy.
