Unsafe reusable syringes raise health concerns in Pakistan

The Healthcare Devices Association of Pakistan (HDAP) has raised serious concerns over the continued presence of banned reusable syringes in the market, warning that such practices pose a significant threat to public health.

In a statement issued in Islamabad, the association revealed that some syringes being sold as “auto-disable” are in fact reusable, making them unsafe and misleading for healthcare providers and patients alike. HDAP cautioned that the use of these devices could contribute to the spread of dangerous blood-borne diseases.

“These are not just regulatory violations but serious public health risks,” the association stated, adding that unsafe syringes have been linked to the transmission of infections such as Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, and HIV, particularly among vulnerable populations, including children.

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HDAP strongly condemned the illegal manufacturing, import, and distribution of such syringes, stressing that their continued use increases the risk of disease outbreaks. The association urged authorities to take strict and sustained action against all parties involved in the supply chain, including manufacturers, importers, distributors, and healthcare providers using these products.

The organization called on federal and provincial governments to move beyond short-term measures and implement comprehensive enforcement strategies to eliminate unsafe medical devices from the market. It also emphasized the need to promote the use of safe, single-use auto-disable syringes that meet international safety standards.

Reaffirming its commitment to patient safety, HDAP said it would continue working with government institutions and healthcare stakeholders to improve regulatory compliance and strengthen market surveillance.

The association also pledged to support initiatives aimed at ensuring only high-quality, approved healthcare products are available, while holding those responsible for unlawful practices accountable to protect public health.