The Punjab government has approved a comprehensive “Disease Prevention Programme” aimed at reducing the spread of major illnesses across the province. The initiative received formal approval from Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz during a high-level meeting held in Lahore.
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According to an official statement, the programme will primarily focus on preventing and controlling diseases such as Diabetes, Tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS, and Hepatitis. Authorities plan to roll out a province-wide public awareness campaign to educate citizens about the causes, prevention, and treatment of these life-threatening conditions.
پنجاب میں صحتِ عامہ کے لیے بڑا اقدام ‘چیف منسٹر پنجاب ڈیزیز پراونشنل پروگرام’ کا آغاز۔۔۔✨
وزیر اعلیٰ پنجاب مریم نواز شریف کی زیرِ صدارت اعلیٰ سطح کا اجلاس منعقد ہوا جس میں صوبے بھر کے عوام کو مہلک بیماریوں سے بچانے کے لیے ایک جامع حکمت عملی طے کی گئی ہے۔ pic.twitter.com/5JrODcrpxN— Government of Punjab (@GovtofPunjabPK) April 21, 2026
During the meeting, officials briefed the chief minister on the scope of the campaign, highlighting its role in promoting early diagnosis and encouraging timely medical intervention. The awareness drive will also aim to reduce stigma associated with certain diseases, particularly infectious conditions.
Maryam Nawaz directed relevant departments to take concrete steps to control the spread of these illnesses and ensure strict implementation of standard operating procedures (SOPs) in public healthcare facilities. She emphasised the importance of preparedness in preventing potential outbreaks and epidemics.
The chief minister also instructed the Punjab Healthcare Commission to closely monitor compliance with health regulations in private hospitals and clinics. She ordered strict legal action against unqualified medical practitioners, commonly known as quacks, operating across the province.
Highlighting the importance of prevention, Maryam Nawaz stated that public awareness is a key component in combating fatal and infectious diseases. She added that early recognition of symptoms can significantly improve treatment outcomes and reduce the burden on the healthcare system.
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The programme is expected to strengthen preventive healthcare measures and improve overall public health standards in Punjab.