World Thalassemia Day is being observed today to raise awareness among people about the prevention and treatment of thalassemia. It is a genetic blood disorder that affects haemoglobin production in the body. The day aims to support people suffering from thalassemia by emphasising the importance of genetic testing and advocating access to equitable and quality treatment for all. This disease is caused when the body is unable to produce enough haemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen to cells throughout the body.
Thalassemia is a treatable disorder that can be well managed with blood transfusions and chelation therapy. The initial symptoms of thalassemia are fatigue, slow growth, abdominal swelling, and dark urine, among others. Talking to Akashvani, Dr. Tulika Seth, Professor of Haematology at All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in New Delhi said thalassemia is an inherited disorder that leads to severe anaemia. Dr Seth advised everyone to go for a thalassemia screening. She said this test helps everyone to prevent thalassemia.
