Health & Education Archives - Page 2 of 11

PM task force proposes screening for deported passengers to curb HIV spread

May 8, 2026 by Newsdesk

ISLAMABAD: A high-level task force formed by the Prime Minister to address the rising number of HIV cases has proposed mandatory screening of deported passengers at airports and entry points as part of broader preventive measures.

According to the Ministry of Health spokesperson, the task force held its second meeting under the chairmanship of Dr. Mukhtar Bharath following the Prime Minister’s notice of recently reported HIV cases.

The meeting was attended by senior health officials, representatives of federal and provincial institutions, and public health experts, including Dr. Zafar Mirza and retired Major General Azhar Mahmood Kiani, chairman of the task force.

Officials from the National Institute of Health (NIH), Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan, provincial health departments, UNAIDS, and the Common Management Unit also participated in the session.

Dr. Mukhtar Bharath said the task force was established to investigate the causes behind the spread of HIV, identify responsible factors, and formulate recommendations to prevent similar incidents in the future.

The task force recommended activating a real-time national dashboard linking NIH, CDC, and CMU data systems to improve monitoring of HIV cases, trend analysis, and coordination mechanisms.

Participants also agreed on the need for a National Public Health Law aimed at preventing the spread of HIV through unsafe medical practices, particularly the reuse of contaminated syringes.

The task force stressed stricter enforcement against the reuse and mislabeling of syringes and IV sets, regular inspections of hospitals, clinics, pharmacies, and medical stores, and stronger regulatory oversight by healthcare commissions nationwide.

Among key recommendations were mandatory HIV testing during screening processes, compulsory pre-surgery HIV tests in hospitals, and enhanced infection prevention and control measures across the country.

The panel also proposed ensuring timely availability of essential medical supplies to prevent syringe reuse and expanding testing, treatment, and preventive facilities in high-risk areas and vulnerable groups.

The task force further recommended adding HIV to the list of notifiable diseases and launching a nationwide awareness campaign regarding blood-borne infections and safe medical practices.

In addition, it was proposed that Border Health Services ensure screening of deported individuals at airports and other entry points to strengthen disease surveillance and public health protection.

Actress Sonali Bendre opens up on her fight against cancer

May 2, 2026 by Newsdesk

MUMBAI: Indian actress Sonali Bendre has said that her cancer might not have progressed to an advanced stage had it been diagnosed earlier, highlighting the critical importance of timely detection.

In a recent interview, Bendre opened up about her 2018 diagnosis with Metastatic Cancer and her treatment journey, revealing that one of the biggest challenges she faced was the lack of open discussion about the disease in society.

She shared that after being diagnosed with stage IV cancer, she underwent extensive treatment in New York, including chemotherapy and surgery.

The actress noted that an earlier diagnosis could have significantly reduced the severity of her experience.

Bendre emphasized that, in the past, cancer was often considered a taboo subject, with people hesitant to even mention it openly.

However, she acknowledged that awareness around the disease has improved in recent years.

She stressed that if detected at an early stage, cancer is treatable and should not be viewed as a death sentence. She urged the public to prioritize regular medical check-ups and early screening, noting that timely diagnosis can save countless lives.

Cambridge International Education confirms A-Level math’s paper leak

April 30, 2026 by Newsdesk

LONDON/INTERNATIONAL: Cambridge International Education has confirmed that an A-Level Mathematics examination paper was leaked prior to the scheduled exam, raising serious concerns over exam security across multiple regions.

In an official statement, the board said that A-Level Mathematics Paper 12 (9709), conducted across Africa, Europe, the Middle East, Pakistan, and South Asia, was shared in violation of examination regulations before the test was held.

The organization stated that it is conducting a full and immediate investigation to determine the extent and nature of the breach, and is currently assessing the impact of the leak. Cambridge added that further updates will be issued on May 7, 2026.

The examination body emphasized that its top priority is to ensure students are not unfairly affected while maintaining the integrity and credibility of the examination system.

Students have been advised to continue preparing for upcoming papers and attend exams as scheduled.

Cambridge further noted that any decisions regarding grading and future actions will be taken by senior experts to preserve the reliability of results, ensuring universities and institutions can continue to trust them.

It also reiterated that while such incidents are rare, strict action is taken against individuals or centres involved in malpractice whenever evidence is found.

Imran Khan undergoes follow-up eye treatment at PIMS Hospital

April 28, 2026 by Newsdesk

ISLAMABAD: Former Prime Minister and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan underwent a follow-up eye check-up at Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS).

According to hospital officials, Imran Khan was administered the fourth dose of Anti-VEGF intravitreal injection as part of his ongoing treatment.

Eye specialists conducted a detailed examination, including Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT), which showed signs of improvement.

The PIMS administration stated that the medical procedure was carried out after obtaining the patient’s consent and under full clinical supervision.

Officials further said that following the procedure, Imran Khan was provided with post-treatment care instructions, follow-up guidance, and relevant medical documentation before being discharged from the facility.

Netanyahu reveals prostate cancer diagnosis

April 24, 2026 by Newsdesk

JERUSALEM: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has disclosed that he was diagnosed with early-stage prostate cancer but has since completed treatment and is now fully healthy.

In December 2024, his office had announced that Netanyahu underwent surgery for an enlarged prostate.

However, he has now confirmed that subsequent medical reports revealed a cancerous tumor measuring less than one centimetre.

In a video message shared on social media, Netanyahu said he is now in good health, adding that the condition was “minor” and has been fully treated.

According to sources, the illness was diagnosed several months ago, and he began radiation therapy around 10 weeks ago.

The Israeli prime minister also explained a two-month delay in the release of his annual medical report, saying it was intended to avoid what he described as misinformation or propaganda amid heightened regional tensions involving Iran.

Medical reports issued by his doctors confirmed that the cancer was very small and had not spread to other parts of the body.

Israel’s medical team has reportedly declared Netanyahu cancer-free, stating that there is no remaining sign of the disease, while Israeli media reports say he has been issued a clean bill of health following successful treatment.

Over 2000 children diagnosed with HIV in Pakistan over 15 months

April 22, 2026 by Newsdesk

ISLAMABAD: More than 2,000 children have been diagnosed with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) in Pakistan over the past 15 months, according to data released by the Ministry of National Health Services Regulations and Coordination.

Figures from the Common Management Unit (CMU) show that among the affected children, 1,274 are boys and 834 are girls.

The highest number of cases has been reported in Sindh, where 1,515 children were diagnosed during the period. Of these, 1,186 cases were recorded in 2025, while an additional 329 cases emerged in the first three months of 2026.

Punjab ranks second, with 418 cases reported in 2025. In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, a total of 111 cases were recorded, including 90 in 2025 and 21 in early 2026.

Meanwhile, Balochistan reported 38 cases (33 in 2025 and 5 in 2026), while Islamabad recorded 22 cases, including 17 in 2025 and 5 this year.

Additionally, three cases were reported in Azad Jammu and Kashmir and one case in Gilgit-Baltistan.

Health officials have expressed concern over the rising numbers and stress the need for enhanced prevention, awareness, and early diagnosis efforts to curb the spread of the virus among children.

Admissions open for first year at Pakistan Steel Cadet College

April 22, 2026 by Newsdesk

KARACHI: Pakistan Steel Cadet College Karachi has formally announced the commencement of admissions for First Year (Grade XI) for the academic session 2026–27.

The institution is widely recognized among the country’s leading cadet colleges, known for its commitment to academic excellence, discipline, leadership development, and character building.

The college offers a modern educational framework combined with a comprehensive training environment, aimed at grooming students into responsible citizens, effective leaders, and future defenders of the nation.

With a strong focus on personality development, the institution prepares young individuals to contribute meaningfully to national progress and service.

Key facilities at the college include state-of-the-art classrooms, fully equipped science and computer laboratories, well-maintained residential hostels, expansive sports grounds, and a team of highly qualified and experienced faculty members.

In addition, cadets undergo structured physical training, regular parade sessions, and a wide range of co-curricular activities designed to instill discipline, confidence, and teamwork.

Owing to its strong academic track record and robust training system, the college continues to emerge as a preferred choice for parents. As seats are limited, students and parents are advised to submit their applications at the earliest to avail this unique educational and developmental opportunity.

For further details and admission forms, please visit the official website of the college or contact via the provided WhatsApp number.

Elderly man appears in class 9 exams, proves age is no barrier to education

April 20, 2026 by Newsdesk

Muzaffargarh: A 55-year-old man, Ghulam Qadir, is taking Class 9 examinations in Muzaffargarh, offering a powerful reminder that learning has no age limit.

Speaking to the media, Qadir shared that his children, who are well-educated, encouraged him to resume his studies and fulfill his long-standing academic goals.

Despite facing setbacks in the past, including failing his matriculation exams twice, he remained determined and never lost hope. His last attempt was 13 years ago, but he has now returned to the examination hall with renewed confidence and preparation.

“I will pass this time and continue my journey towards intermediate education,” he said, emphasizing that acquiring knowledge is a lifelong pursuit and not restricted by age.

His story has inspired many, highlighting resilience, determination, and the importance of continuous learning.

HIV cases surge in Islamabad, raising public health concerns

April 18, 2026 by Newsdesk

ISLAMABAD: The spread of HIV in Islamabad is accelerating, according to official data, triggering growing concern among public health experts.

A government report revealed that 498 HIV cases were recorded in 2025, while a total of 618 new cases were reported between January 2025 and March 2026 in the federal capital.

Statistics indicate that more than 41 individuals, on average, contracted HIV each month in Islamabad. A significant majority of those affected are young men, with adult males accounting for 64 percent of all reported cases.

Authorities stated that among the 618 cases, 397 were men, 106 women, 93 transgender individuals, and 22 children.

The report further highlighted that 120 new cases emerged in the first quarter of 2026 alone. The highest monthly spike was recorded in July 2025 with 63 cases, while the lowest numbers 31 cases each were reported in June and December.

Health experts attribute the surge largely to unsafe sexual practices, particularly among young men under the influence of наркотics.

The use of crystal meth, commonly known as “ice,” has been identified as a major contributing factor, as it often leads to high-risk behavior and unprotected intercourse.

Nationwide, the estimated number of people living with HIV in Pakistan stands at approximately 350,000, underscoring the scale of the public health challenge.

Imran Khan undergoes follow-up eye examination in Adiala Jail

March 3, 2026 by Newsdesk

RAWALPINDI: A medical team comprising specialists from Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) and Al-Shifa Trust Eye Hospital examined the injured eye of PTI founder Imran Khan at Adiala Jail.

According to sources, the team included retina specialist Dr. Nadeem Qureshi, along with ophthalmologists Dr. Arif and Dr. Ausal from PIMS. A vehicle equipped with modern medical equipment also arrived at the jail to facilitate the examination.

Sources said the visiting doctors were assisted by the jail hospital’s medical staff during the check-up. After conducting a follow-up assessment of Khan’s eye condition, the medical team departed from the facility.

Bushra Bibi meets Imran Khan

Jail sources further confirmed that Bushra Bibi was allowed to meet the PTI founder on the same day.

The meeting took place in the jail’s conference room and lasted approximately 40 minutes. During the meeting, Bushra Bibi inquired about Khan’s injured eye.

Officials stated that the meeting was conducted in accordance with the jail manual.