Prof Jamal Raza unveils Pakistan's first Shariah-compliant Human Milk Bank

In a groundbreaking move for infant health care in Pakistan, Prof Jamal Raza, the Executive Director of the Sindh Institute of Child Health and Neonatology (SICHN), has unveiled the country's first and only Shariah-compliant Human Milk Bank at SICHN. This innovative initiative aims to provide pasteurized donor milk to infants who require additional nourishment beyond what their mothers can provide.

The newly established Human Milk Bank at SICHN is dedicated to collecting, processing, storing, and distributing human breast milk donated by lactating mothers. In partnership with UNICEF, this project represents a significant advancement in maternal health and will significantly improve neonatal care by offering essential nourishment to newborns in need.

Donated milk undergoes a rigorous pasteurization process to ensure safety by eliminating potential pathogens while retaining its nutritional value. The milk is then carefully frozen until needed, primarily benefiting premature or sick infants in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) who are unable to breastfeed directly from their mothers.

Human milk banks play a vital role in providing vulnerable infants with essential nutrients, antibodies, and protective factors crucial for their growth and development. Furthermore, these banks provide valuable support and education to breastfeeding mothers, contributing to overall maternal and infant health.

Stringent records of donors and recipients are meticulously maintained to adhere to Shariah guidelines, ensuring transparency and accountability. To optimize operational efficiency, a team from SICHN will undergo training in Islamic countries to effectively manage the Human Milk Bank.

Prof Raza emphasizes the significance of raising awareness within society about the functions of a Human Milk Bank to address any concerns or misconceptions. This pioneering initiative in Pakistan establishes a precedent for advancing neonatal health and well-being through innovative healthcare solutions.

The launch of Pakistan's first Shariah-compliant Human Milk Bank at SICHN represents a significant milestone in infant health care, providing a lifeline for vulnerable newborns in need of specialized nourishment. This initiative not only showcases Pakistan's commitment to improving maternal and neonatal health but also sets a standard for promoting innovative healthcare solutions globally.