rki.news
By: Maleeha Ayaz
Student, Women University Mardan, English Department
Thalassemia is an inherited blood disorder that affects the body’s ability to produce healthy hemoglobin. Children with severe thalassemia, particularly thalassemia major, may require regular blood transfusions throughout their lives to survive.
Every year, more than 5,000 children are born with thalassemia in Pakistan. The condition can occur when faulty genes are inherited from one or both parents. Parents may look completely healthy while carrying a thalassemia gene.
Prevention
Prevention is simple and starts with screening. A complete blood count (CBC), hemoglobin analysis and electrophoresis can help identify carriers. Couples should be tested before marriage so they can understand their risk and make informed decisions.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis may involve a CBC, hemoglobin analysis or electrophoresis and, when needed, genetic testing. There is no simple routine cure for transfusion-dependent thalassemia, and long-term treatment can be costly. Regular blood transfusions and appropriate specialist care are essential for affected patients.
Message to the Community
Thalassemia is largely preventable through awareness, carrier screening and premarital counseling. One simple test before marriage can help families understand their risk and may prevent the birth of a child with severe thalassemia.