One of the scientists who contributed to the invention of Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS), Dr. Rafiqul Islam passed away. (Inna Lillahe wa Inna Ilaihe Rajiun).
He breathed his last at the age of 82 at the Apollo Hospitals in the capital on Monday morning. Dr. Rafiqul Islam was suffering from heart disease and other old age complications.
Born in 1936 in Comilla's Chauddagram, Rafiqul Islam completed his MBBS from Dhaka Medical College, joined ICDDR,B in the mid-60s and retired in 2000. Rafiqul did his higher studies on tropical medicine and hygiene in England. The father of three, including two daughters, conducted a series of clinical trials at the ICDDR,B but the most important one was the ORS.
Oral saline fulfill the water deficiency in the body during the period of loose motion caused by diarrhea. Diarrhea often lasts for few days and can result in dehydration due to fluid loss. ORS was approved by the World Health Organization. It saves crores of lives throughout the world following its invention.
AH
