OI is a hereditary bone disorder, says Prof Raza

MN Report

KARACHI- National Institute Child Health’s (NICH) director Prof Jamal Raza has underscored the need for creating awareness about hereditary bone disorder, called osteogenesis imperfecta (OI).

He was speaking at a public awareness event held here at the NICH auditorium on the occasion of “Wishbone Day”. Surgeon Dr Nasir Saleem, Australian Honorary Consul Farrukh Ikram and other guests were also present on this occasion. “Wishbone Day” is officially celebrated on May 6 each year.   

Jamal Raza, who is a prominent paediatrician, said that Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI) occurs in about one per 20,000 live births in the world.

Though no national level data is available in Pakistan, a significant number of children are living with this hereditary disease in the country due to inter-family marriage culture, he said, adding that 11 types of OI have been identified, so far.

He informed around 100 children with OI are being treated at the health care facility and NICH doctors have successfully performed seven operations in a year.

Highlighting the importance of early diagnosis and proper treatment of the OI for avoiding further complications, Prof Raza said that children affected with the OI could face bones fracture, spinal problems, joints issues, respiratory problems, bone disorders and deformity.

Unfolding details of new treatment options and results of treatment provided to children at the NICH, assistant professor Dr Nasir Saleem said that awareness about the OI could play a vital role in managing the disorder among children more effectively.

Australian Honorary Consul Farrukh Ikram also stressed the need for creating awareness about the OI, saying confidence of children affected with it was highly commendable.

Later, a cake-cutting ceremony was held for the children suffering from OI.