Research and Development

Prior to 2010, there was hardly any research publications from Pakistan in the field of transfusion medicine. The Programme has been promoting the culture of research and development in the transfusion sector in Pakistan. In addition to the monthly e-newsletters and Annual Reports of SBTP, IBTA and WBDD, the Programme also regularly publishes its research work in reputed international and national research journals. During the past 10 years, the SBTP got published more than 60 research articles in international journals of repute with high impact factor. The National Coordinator, Prof. HA Zaheer and Technical Expert, Usman Waheed were featured in the directory of ‘Productive Scientists of Pakistan’ published by the Ministry of Science and Technology.

As a result of the successful implementation of the project in the last 10 years, Pakistan has now firmly secured a place on the world map of blood transfusion. The Programme leadership is frequently invited to represent the country at international meetings to share the progress of its blood safety systems reforms. The Programme achievements and scientific studies are also accepted for presentations in international conferences. And now increasing numbers of national experts attend international conferences and avail the opportunity by networking with the international blood transfusion community.

The Programme has developed very close linkages with international partners; WHO, ISBT, IFRC, AATM, IBTO, ATMC, IHN, USAID, UNAIDS, etc. Research collaborations developed with industry partners including Abbott, Roche, AsahiKasei and GLT, DiaSorin, etc. Many national experts were encouraged, who started publishing in the field of transfusion medicine in the last few years.