Raising awareness about Thalassemia is the crucial initial step

“Thalassemia is a manageable condition. With proper care and support, most people with thalassemia can lead long and fulfilling lives.” Dr. Grace.

Understanding Thalassemia:

Thalassemia may sound complex, but let’s break it down together. It’s an inherited blood disorder that affects red blood cells and their ability to carry oxygen throughout your body. Red blood cells rely on a protein called hemoglobin to do this crucial job. In thalassemia, your body either makes less hemoglobin or makes an abnormal form, leading to a condition called anemia. Anemia can cause fatigue, but the good news is, thalassemia is a treatable condition.

Types and Severity of Thalassemia:

There are two main types of thalassemia: alpha and beta. Each type has varying degrees of severity, ranging from mild with minimal symptoms to more serious forms requiring ongoing care. The terms “trait” or “minor” describe mild forms, while “major” refers to more severe cases.

Causes and Risk Factors: As mentioned, thalassemia is inherited. This means you inherit faulty genes from one or both parents that affect hemoglobin production. It’s not contagious like a cold or flu. People with ancestry from Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and countries have a higher risk of carrying the genes for thalassemia.

Thalassemia Symptoms:

In some people, symptoms show up at birth. In others, it can take a couple of years to see anything. Some people who have thalassemia will show no symptoms at all. Possible symptoms and signs to watch for, especially in children, include slow growth, brittle bones, an enlarged spleen, fatigue, weakness, pale or yellow skin, dark urine, poor appetite, and in some cases, heart problems.

Living with Thalassemia:

Many people with thalassemia, particularly those with milder forms, lead active and fulfilling lives. However, some require ongoing medical management.

Treatment Options: While there’s no cure for most types of thalassemia, effective treatments can significantly improve quality of life. Here’s a breakdown of some common approaches:

● Healthy Habits: Eating a balanced diet rich in nutrients like iron and folic acid is essential for overall well-being.
● Blood Transfusions: These replenish red blood cells and are crucial in moderate to severe cases.
● Chelation Therapy: This helps remove excess iron buildup that can occur with frequent transfusions.
● Supplements: Folic acid or other supplements might be recommended in specific cases.
● Stem Cell or Bone Marrow Transplant: In rare instances, this procedure can potentially cure thalassemia.
● Surgery: Sometimes, spleen removal becomes necessary if it’s overworked due to filtering abnormal red blood cells.

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Family Planning and Prevention: While thalassemia itself cannot be prevented, a preconception visit with your Family Doctor can empower you. Even if you feel healthy, considering having a family, and thalassemia is a possibility in your family history (or ethnicity puts you at higher risk), your family Doctor can prescribe you a simple blood test that check for the thalassemia trait, a hidden carrier status that might not cause any symptoms but it means you could pass the trait to your children. This information empowers you to have an informed conversation with your doctor about healthy ways to conceive and plan for a future filled with a healthy family.

Marriage and a Family: Dreaming of a family? Thalassemia doesn’t have to be a roadblock. A preconception visit with your Family Doctor empowers you with knowledge. Eventually a Genetic counseling can help you make informed choices for a healthy future family.

Living Well with Thalassemia: Remember, you’re not alone! Many people manage thalassemia successfully. Working closely with your Family Doctor, adhering to treatment plans, and potentially joining a support group can significantly improve your quality of life. While severe cases may require ongoing care, new treatments continue to emerge, offering a brighter future for people with thalassemia.

This article is contributed by Dr. Grace Fabrizia Graziani, Family Medicine Specialist at Aster Royal Clinic (Arabian Ranches 2)

Disclaimer:All views and opinions expressed in The Brew Opinion – our opinion section – are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of TheBrew.ae, the company, or any of its members.