A significant international medical gathering focusing on the critical issue of kidney diseases in the youngest patients was successfully convened in Multan this week. The International Biennial Pediatric Nephrology Conference took place at the Pediatrics Medicine Ward Hall of Nishtar Hospital, bringing the spotlight onto advanced dialysis treatments for newborns and children.
Leadership and Experts Gather for Child Healthcare
The event was formally inaugurated by Dr. Mehnaz Khakwani, the Vice Chancellor of Nishtar Medical University (NMU), who served as the chief guest. The conference hall was filled with a distinguished assembly of national and international medical experts, seasoned pediatric nephrologists, senior clinicians, and keen medical students. Key figures in attendance included Principal of Nishtar Medical College, Professor Dr. Rashid Qamar Rao, Chairman and Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, Professor Dr. Azam Khan, Medical Superintendent of Nishtar Hospital, Dr. Rao Amjad, and former Head of Pediatrics, Professor Dr. Fauzia Waqar.
Addressing a Growing Public Health Challenge
In her address, VC Dr. Mehnaz Khakwani underscored that kidney ailments in children, particularly in newborns, are becoming a serious public health concern. She hailed the availability of dialysis facilities for neonates as a major medical breakthrough, emphasizing that such specialized services can dramatically enhance survival rates and the future quality of life for critically ill infants. Dr. Khakwani commended the Pediatric Nephrology Department at Nishtar Hospital for its efforts and reiterated the university's dedication to improving pediatric healthcare through innovation, capacity building, and global partnerships.
Call for Advanced Research and Training
Principal Dr. Rashid Qamar Rao highlighted the value of such international conferences in exposing young doctors to modern medical trends, which directly translates to better patient care. Echoing the urgency of the situation, Professor Dr. Azam Khan pointed out the pressing need for advanced research and specialized expertise in pediatric nephrology to manage the increasing burden of kidney diseases among the pediatric population.
The conference featured multiple in-depth scientific sessions. Experts delivered presentations and engaged in discussions on a range of topics, including:
- Various pediatric kidney disorders
- Innovations and protocols in neonatal dialysis
- Modern treatment methodologies
- Clinical challenges and complex case studies
In a collective resolution, the participants agreed to continue organizing such vital scientific forums in the future. This commitment aims to ensure that timely and improved healthcare services for children suffering from kidney diseases remain a top priority for the medical community in Pakistan and beyond.
