Haleon Pakistan renews partnership with Smile Train to fund cleft surgeries

KARACHI: Haleon Pakistan Limited has renewed its partnership with Smile Train to expand funding and support for cleft treatment in Pakistan, aiming to provide free surgeries and comprehensive care for children with cleft lips and palates. The initiative is backed by Haleon’s leading oral care brands, Sensodyne and Parodontax.

A press event in Karachi marked the collaboration, featuring a panel discussion on challenges faced by children with clefts. Speakers included Haleon Pakistan CEO Farhan Haroon, integrative health coach Nazish Chagla, and plastic surgeon Dr Mirza Shehab Afzal Beg. Several celebrities attended to show support. The initiative seeks to address a critical healthcare gap, as one in every 500 children in Pakistan is born with a cleft condition that can impair speech, eating, and breathing. Beyond medical challenges, children with clefts often face social stigma and exclusion.

Haleon has been supporting Smile Train since 2018, contributing to cleft care in 98 countries and funding over 63,000 treatments, including 32,000 plus cleft surgeries. The renewed partnership will continue to provide surgical procedures, orthodontic care, nutrition support, and speech therapy to affected children in Pakistan.

“With timely intervention, children with clefts can lead healthy lives, yet many lack access to treatment due to financial constraints and limited awareness,” said Haroon. “Through this collaboration, we aim to bridge that gap, ensuring children receive the care they need.” As part of the fundraising campaign, Haleon Pakistan will donate up to Rs.50 from the sale of each 50g, 70g, and 100g pack of Sensodyne and Parodontax at participating stores between February 20 and April 30.