Symposium on Blood Transfusion Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology

The Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Lady Willingdon Hospital Lahore, under the auspices of King Edward Medical University, successfully organized a “Symposium on Judicious Use of Blood and Blood Products in Obstetrics & Gynaecology.”

The symposium was held under the patronage and visionary leadership of the Vice Chancellor King Edward Medical University, Prof. Dr. Mahmood Ayyaz, and was organized by Prof. Dr. Uzma Hussain (Chairperson, Obstetrics & Gynaecology, LWH).

The program began with the recitation of the Holy Quran. The aim of the symposium was to raise awareness regarding the safe, effective, and responsible use of blood and blood products for the protection of maternal and child health. Experts highlighted the importance of modern scientific principles, evidence-based practices, and protocols to effectively manage obstetric complications in a timely manner.

Prof. Dr. Mahmood Ayyaz, Vice Chancellor KEMU, in his keynote address stated that maternal and child health forms the foundation of any society’s progress and prosperity. He emphasized that anemia during pregnancy and unsafe transfusions not only endanger the mother but also the child’s life. Therefore, it is crucial for doctors and health professionals to exercise caution in the use of blood and strictly follow evidence-based protocols.

Safe and judicious use of blood is not merely a medical issue; it is a major public health concern. Adopting modern protocols and evidence-based practices is the need of the hour to save maternal and neonatal lives. King Edward Medical University is advancing this mission through integration of research, education, and clinical practice.

Prof. Ayyaz further remarked, It is our responsibility to ensure that young doctors are trained not only in modern treatment standards but also in patient safety, ethical values, and judicious use of resources. Today’s symposium reflects this vision and will contribute to ensuring better maternal and child health in the future.

Prof. Dr. Uzma Hussain stated that the department has always strived to promote modern research and scientific principles in obstetrics and gynaecology. She termed the symposium as an academic milestone for young doctors and postgraduates, enhancing their clinical skills and improving patient care.

Concluding her address, she stressed the need for greater awareness on Thalassemia prevention, Prenatal Screening, and Massive Transfusion Protocols, in order to deliver healthcare at par with international standards. She paid tribute to Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Mahmood Ayyaz for his visionary leadership and guidance, acknowledging that such academic and research-based programs would not have been possible without his patronage.

Speakers’ Highlights

Dr. Tooba Fateen (Associate Professor, Allama Iqbal Medical College) said: Judicious use of blood means providing patients with only the treatment they truly need, thereby avoiding unnecessary transfusions. Following modern guidelines enhances patient safety and ensures efficient use of resources.

Prof. Dr. Shabnam Basheer (Director, Institute of Blood Transfusion Punjab) said:

Adherence to Massive Transfusion Protocols plays a vital role in saving lives during obstetric emergencies. At the same time, prioritizing Thalassemia prevention and antenatal testing at a national level is essential to protect future generations from this disease.

Dr. Yasmeen Ahsan (DG Punjab Thalassemia & Genetic Disorders Prevention and Research Institute) said: Prenatal diagnosis is a cornerstone of modern medical science. It not only allows timely detection of complications but also enables proper guidance to parents, ensuring safe deliveries and healthier future generations.

Conclusion:

The symposium highlighted the importance of safe, effective, and evidence-based use of blood and blood products in obstetrics. Experts emphasized that responsible transfusion practices not only save maternal and neonatal lives but also reduce the burden on the public health system. This academic and research-based gathering provided valuable guidance for young doctors and stressed that only through modern protocols, evidence-based practices, and public awareness can the vision of safe motherhood and a healthier society be achieved.