#Thalassemia Treatment in Pakistan
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drrahulbhargava · 15 days ago
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Thalassemia Treatment in Pakistan: A Comprehensive Guide to Expert Care
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Thalassemia is a genetic blood disorder that affects millions of individuals worldwide, including in Pakistan. As one of the most common inherited blood disorders, thalassemia can cause a range of health complications, including anemia, fatigue, and organ damage. Fortunately, with advancements in medical science, thalassemia treatment in Pakistan has become more accessible and effective, offering hope to those affected by this condition.
Understanding Thalassemia and Its Impact
Thalassemia is caused by mutations in the genes responsible for producing hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body. People with thalassemia either produce insufficient amounts of hemoglobin or produce abnormal hemoglobin, leading to a decrease in the number of healthy red blood cells.
In Pakistan, thalassemia is a significant concern, particularly in regions where consanguineous marriages (marriages between close relatives) are more common. The disorder primarily affects children, and the symptoms can range from mild to severe, depending on the type of thalassemia (Alpha or Beta) and its severity.
Effective Thalassemia Treatment in Pakistan
The treatment for thalassemia varies depending on the type and severity of the condition. While there is no definitive cure for thalassemia, there are several treatment options available in Pakistan to help manage the symptoms and improve the quality of life for patients.
Blood Transfusions One of the most common treatments for thalassemia patients in Pakistan is regular blood transfusions. These transfusions help replace the deficient red blood cells and alleviate symptoms of anemia. However, they come with the risk of iron overload, which requires ongoing management.
Chelation Therapy To address the issue of iron overload caused by frequent blood transfusions, patients often undergo chelation therapy. This treatment helps remove excess iron from the body, preventing damage to organs such as the heart and liver.
Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT) In certain cases, a bone marrow transplant (BMT) may be recommended as a potential cure for thalassemia. This procedure involves replacing the patient’s bone marrow with healthy marrow from a compatible donor. BMT is a complex and high-risk procedure, but it offers a potential long-term solution for thalassemia patients.
Gene Therapy Although still in its experimental stages, gene therapy is an exciting area of research in the treatment of thalassemia. This innovative treatment aims to correct the genetic mutations that cause the disorder, potentially offering a permanent cure in the future.
Why Choose Expert Care for Thalassemia Treatment in Pakistan?
When seeking thalassemia treatment in Pakistan, it is crucial to consult with experienced hematologists and specialists who understand the complexities of the condition. Expert care ensures that patients receive the most effective and personalized treatment options available, tailored to their specific needs.
Dr. Rahul Bhargava, a leading expert in clinical haematology, offers comprehensive care for thalassemia patients. With his extensive experience and commitment to patient well-being, Dr. Bhargava provides advanced treatment options and continuous care to manage thalassemia effectively.
Conclusion
Thalassemia is a challenging condition, but with the right treatment approach, individuals in Pakistan can manage their symptoms and lead healthier lives. From blood transfusions to innovative gene therapy, there are various options available for those seeking thalassemia treatment in Pakistan. For the best care, it is essential to consult with experienced medical professionals who specialize in haematology.
If you or a loved one is affected by thalassemia, seeking expert guidance can make a significant difference in managing the condition and improving quality of life.
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sundasfoundation · 1 month ago
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Advancing Blood Cancer Treatment | Sundas Foundation’s Impact
Blood cancer is one of the most challenging health challenges, requiring expert and consistent treatment from healthcare providers in order to be effective. Sundas Foundation in Pakistan has long been an oasis of hope and support for individuals struggling with blood cancer or blood-related disorders since 1998; our organization was created as an incubator of compassion, innovation and community service.
Transforming Healthcare for Blood Cancer Patients
Sundas has transformed access to advanced blood cancer treatment while emphasizing compassion. Their holistic approach ensures patients not only receive medical care but also emotional and moral support through their journey.
Core Services:
Blood cancer patients in need are provided free consultations and treatment, along with regular and safe supply of screened blood and products, along with comprehensive awareness campaigns to inform the public of the importance of donation as well as early detection of blood disorders.
This multifaceted care system ensures that patients experience comfort, dignity, and hope during their treatment journey.
Expanding Access Across Pakistan
Sundas Foundation has quickly established itself as an essential pillar of Pakistan's healthcare system by operating in major cities like Lahore, Islamabad, Gujranwala, Faisalabad and Sialkot. Delivering 250-300 units of screened blood every day to these regions helps meet much of their demand.
Sundas Foundation has become an essential lifeline for patients living both urban and rural environments by providing easy-access blood cancer treatments, lifesaving blood transfusions, and access to quality healthcare. Their nationwide network ensures no patient goes unattended.
The Role of Blood Donation in Cancer Care
Donating blood is an integral component of cancer care, from chemotherapy and radiation treatments to regular transfusions for patients undergoing recovery therapies such as physical therapy or transplants. Sundas Foundation conducts nationwide blood donation drives so there will always be enough safe blood available, meeting the needs of cancer patients across the nation.
Key Achievements in Blood Donation:
Over 400,000 units of blood and blood products provided since the foundation’s inception.
Regular blood donation drives to raise awareness and encourage community participation.
Stringent screening processes to ensure the safety and quality of donated blood.
These initiatives not only save lives but also highlight the importance of a strong community-driven approach to healthcare.
Building a Supportive Network
Sundas Foundation's success lies in its ability to establish and nurture an inclusive network. From medical professionals and volunteers, donors, and corporate sponsors - Sundas brings together an assortment of stakeholders who are dedicated to improving healthcare outcomes for blood cancer patients.
Ways to Support Sundas Foundation:
Become a regular blood donor to sustain their life-saving initiatives.
Volunteer your time or resources to assist in their operations.
Spread awareness about blood cancer and the foundation’s mission within your community.
Contribute financially to ensure the continuity of free medical services.
This collaborative approach enables Sundas Foundation to maintain high standards of care while expanding its reach and impact.
Recognized Excellence in Healthcare
Sundas Foundation has earned recognition from international organizations like Thalassemia International Federation and World Hemophilia Federation - proof of our unwavering dedication to providing top-quality healthcare services.
Sundas Foundation goes far beyond treating blood cancer; we provide preventative measures such as genetic counseling and education programs that address root causes of blood disorders for a healthier society.
Innovations in Blood Cancer Treatment
Sundas Foundation remains at the forefront of medical innovations, employing cutting-edge therapies and technologies to provide patients with top-tier care.
Key Innovations:
State-of-the-art treatment protocols tailored to individual patient needs.
Partnerships with leading medical institutions for knowledge sharing and skill development.
Implementation of advanced diagnostic tools to enable early detection and accurate diagnosis.
These innovations have significantly improved survival rates and quality of life for blood cancer patients under their care.
Empowering Communities Through Awareness
Sundas Foundation strives to inform the public of blood cancer's symptoms and the importance of early detection through public awareness campaigns that demystify disease and encourage proactive health-seeking behavior.
Awareness Campaign Highlights:
Seminars and workshops conducted in schools, colleges, and community centers.
Distribution of informational materials on blood cancer and its treatment options.
Collaboration with media outlets to amplify their message and reach a broader audience.
These efforts have not only increased awareness but also fostered a culture of empathy and support for those battling blood cancer.
A Vision for a Healthier Future
Sundas Foundation envisions a future where advanced blood cancer treatment is accessible to all regardless of financial or geographic barriers, so they invest heavily in education, prevention and community engagement activities to achieve this goal.
Future Goals:
Expanding their operations to underserved areas across Pakistan.
Establishing additional blood banks and treatment centers.
Developing partnerships with global healthcare organizations to enhance their capabilities.
By aligning their vision with sustainable development goals, Sundas Foundation is creating a lasting impact on Pakistan’s healthcare landscape.
Patient Stories: Real Lives Transformed
Sundas Foundation measures its success based on how it has changed lives. Patients of various backgrounds have shared personal accounts of hope and recovery thanks to Sundas, making its impactful contributions apparent in these journeys.
Case Study:
A young boy diagnosed with blood cancer in Faisalabad had limited access to specialized care. With the support of Sundas Foundation, he received timely treatment and regular blood transfusions, enabling him to regain his health and return to school. This story is just one of many that demonstrate the foundation’s profound impact.
Conclusion
Sundas Foundation's tireless efforts in improving blood cancer treatments have made a profound impact in the lives of thousands of Pakistanis living with this illness. By combining medical excellence and community support, their dedication has created an example for caring yet accessible healthcare delivery.
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dpr-lahore-division · 4 months ago
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With compliments from, the Directorate General of Public Relations,
Government of the Punjab, Lahore Ph. 99201390 
No.1005/Zafar/Umer
HANDOUT (A)
CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif Chairs Marathon Meeting in P&D Board to Decide on Various Development Projects Across Punjab
LAHORE, 19 September 2024:
Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif chaired a marathon six-and-a-half-hours review meeting being held in the Planning and Development Board in which important decisions were made about education, health, agriculture, livestock roads and other sectors. Under CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif's ‘Suthra Punjab’ program, the largest comprehensive sanitation system in the history of Pakistan will be implemented from mid-November. The launching of ‘Suthra Punjab’ will be started in 100 tehsils of Punjab by 15-October. In two weeks, the cleaning process will be started in 100 tehsils under the outsourced model. Under the second phase of ‘Suthra Punjab’, the cleaning process will also be started in 34 more tehsils from November 15. Approval for Chief Minister Fund for Solar Panel Production and Manufacturing was granted for local production of solar panels in Punjab. In November, people will start getting solar panels under the Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s program. CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif directed to complete Pakistan's first official autism school project in Lahore within one year.
In the meeting, 482 schemes of construction and repair of 11 thousand km roads in Punjab were reviewed. Revamping of 581 primary health centres of South Punjab has started and the target of completion has been set by next January. Proposals for health screening of students and establishment of thalassemia centre were also reviewed. The Chief Minister directed to ensure cleanliness in the hospitals acorss Punjab. She directed to undertake immediate steps for the construction of Nawaz Sharif Cardiology Institute Sargodha and Nawaz Sharif Cancer Hospital. She directed to ensure cardiology treatment facilities in every city.
CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif sought a deadline for the police body cam program. 11000 cattle will be given to women in the villages of 17 districts at a cost of Rs. 2 billion. Punjab's first livestock card for farmers will be launched next month. 20,000 farmers will be able to get food, medicine and equipment etc. through the Farmer Livestock Card.
In the meeting, agroforestry project was approved on government waste land under which onions, potatoes and olives etc. will be cultivated. It was decided to conduct a wildlife census for the first time in Punjab for the wildlife protection. The launch of "eco-tourism" project in Changa Manga and the proposal to build the first model fish market of the province in Lahore were reviewed. It was agreed to form a ‘Shrimp Farming Export Company’. A briefing was given about the shrimp pilot experimental farm on 100 acres in Muzaffargarh. A principle approval was given to establish a ‘Special Directorate’ for shrimp farming. It was also approved to increase the area for shrimp farming to 50 thousand acres along with conducting farmer training and establishing value added chain. Approval was given to establish hatcheries for Pangasius and other fish species in Lahore and DG Khan.
In the briefing, it was informed that ‘Plant for Pakistan’ is being monitored by drones. A ‘body cam pilot project’ has been launched in Sheikhupura with 30 cameras. The deadline for the completion of the second phase of ‘Smart Safe City’ has been set for next March. Monitoring of entrances and exits, free Wi-Fi, pink buttons have also become functional in Sheikhupura.
The Chief Minister directed to increase the number of cameras in all cities as per need. In the meeting, it was approved to start ‘Dastak’ services in 9 more districts of Punjab and for the issuance of ‘carbon credit scheme’ for the first time in Punjab. A project of demarcation of smog area through ‘Geographic Information System’ mapping will also be launched. A detailed briefing was given on Laptop Scheme, Undergraduate Scholarship program. The CM directed to ensure payment of fees for talented children. She approved the establishment of Punjab's first ‘film fund’.
The CM directed to undertake steps to provide employment for the first batch being passed out under ‘CM Skills Development Initiative’. CM Punjab ordered the early completion of metro track for all cities. A briefing was given on Margalla to Jhika Gali Tourist Glass Train Project. 3D footage of ‘Model Agriculture Mall’ was presented. Approval for a uniform design for Multan, Bahawalpur, Sargodha and Sahiwal was given.
It was informed during the briefing that more than 35 thousand farmers have received Kisan cards in Punjab. It was decided to solarize 7500 tubewells in the first phase in Punjab and it was agreed to complete it by next June. It was decided to implement the Chief Minister Agriculture Graduate Program in the concerned Union Council. Measures to increase export of agricultural produce along with utilizing government land to increase canola cultivation in Punjab were reviewed. Approval for design and other aspects of the first phase 9500 green tractor were given. Green tractor will not be sold due to certain features, colour and number and March 31st deadline has been fixed.
CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif directed to undertake measures for the construction of airstrip for air ambulance landing along with carrying out mapping to ascertain the need for rescue services. She directed to provide rescue ambulance service in every city after determining its need. The scope to further extend rescue training in universities and colleges was reviewed.
A comprehensive review on the progress of 7 programs, 70 projects, 77 Chief Minister's Initiatives and 770 Schemes was made in the meeting. CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif said, “Five years have been given to serve the people instead of holding processions. Alhamdulillah, Punjab is taking the lead in every sector.”
Senator Pervaiz Rasheed, Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb, Provincial Minister for Information and Culture Azma Zahid Bokhari, Ministers Chaudhry Shafay Hussain, Mujtaba Shuja ur Rehman, Khawaja Salman Rafique, Khawaja Imran Nazir, Ashiq Hussain, Rana Sikandar Hayat, Bilal Akbar, Sohaib Malik, Zeeshan Rafique, Sohail Shaukat Butt, MPA Sania Ashiq, Brigadier (Retd) Babar Alauddin, Chief Secretary, IGP, Chairman P&D, Secretaries and other relevant officials were also present.
*****
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indiamedicaltourism · 11 months ago
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Thalassemia Treatment in India at Low Cost
Thalassemia is an inherited blood disease caused by defective hemoglobin production, which causes an insufficient supply of oxygen by red blood cells. This results in anemia, which causes symptoms such as tiredness, weakness, and pale skin. This condition affects approximately 4.4 out of every 10,000 live births worldwide, with prevalence in countries like Iraq, Uzbekistan, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Nigeria, and Liberia. Thalassemia's global prevalence emphasizes its importance as a public health issue, particularly in areas with high rates of consanguineous marriage.
Types of Thalassemia
Alpha-thalassemia: It is caused by irregularities in the alpha-globin genes and can range from silent carriers to severe cases such as Alpha-Thalassemia Major.
Beta-thalassemia: It is caused by mutations in the beta-globin genes and is classified into three types: minor, intermediate, and major.
Delta-Beta Thalassemia: An uncommon subtype that affects the delta- and beta-globin genes.
Epsilon-Gamma-Delta-Beta Thalassemia: Another rare form that affects many globin genes.
Thalassemia Treatment Options
Blood transfusions: These are essential for improving healthy red blood cells.
Iron Chelation Therapy: It treats excess iron levels after transfusions.
Folic acid supplements: They promote red blood cell formation.
Bone Marrow or Stem Cell Transplant: It is used for severe situations to replace damaged blood cells.
Luspatercept: It is a new medicine that promotes red blood cell production.
Hormone therapy, vaccinations, antibiotics, thyroid hormone replacement, and bisphosphonates: These are adjunctive medicines that address specific problems.
Cost of Thalassemia Treatment in India
Thalassemia treatment in India is known for its low cost, which attracts patients from all over the world. The cost varies with the type of treatment required. Blood transfusions are required to manage thalassemia and generally cost approximately $150 each session. On the other hand, bone marrow transplants, a more advanced treatment reserved for serious conditions, can cost between $16,000 and $48,000, depending on the kind of transplant and hospital chosen.
Untreated thalassemia can cause heart failure, liver difficulties, infections, and a shorter life expectancy. Thalassemia, while difficult to treat, may be efficiently controlled with the correct medication. India's modern medical infrastructure, competent staff, and affordable care make it a perfect location for anyone seeking comprehensive thalassemia treatment. Patients with thalassemia can manage the disease with determination and hope for a better quality of life because of early diagnosis, personalized medications, and continued care.
Thalassemia treatment in India combines cost, experience, and modern technologies, making it a popular choice for patients worldwide. With top hospitals, renowned doctors, and wide-ranging therapy choices, those suffering from thalassemia may get the support and care they need to handle this difficult illness.
Al Afiya Medi Tour is a leading medical tourism company in India. We offer medical tourism services such as finding the right doctor, the right hospital, and cost estimation etc. Some of the main countries are Bangladesh, South Africa, Egypt, Uganda, Zambia, Sudan, Dubai, Namibia, Iraq, Kenya, Saudi Arabia, Ethiopia, Nigeria, and so on. We provide free medical assistance for TURP surgery cost, lung cancer treatment, blood cancer treatment, the best hospital for heart valve replacement, bone marrow transplant, best liver transplant hospital, kidney transplant, spine tumor surgery,knee replacement surgery,  etc. 
Source: https://alafiyameditour1.blogspot.com/2024/02/thalassemia-treatment-in-india-at-low.html
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infozonepk · 3 years ago
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Haleeb Foods joined hands with Sundas Foundation to support Thalassemia Patients
Haleeb Foods joined hands with Sundas Foundation to support Thalassemia Patients
Haleeb Foods Limited the pioneer dairy and beverages processor in Pakistan arranged a blood donation drive at their Bhai Pheru Plant, in collaboration with Sundas Foundation. This partnership is a testament to HFL’s corporate social responsibility agenda. Sundas Foundation has been doing remarkable work for the treatment of patients suffering from Thalassemia, Haemophilia and Blood Cancer. As…
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Thalassemia Market Is Expected To Exhibit At ACAGR: 10.8% Till 2022: Grand View Research, Inc.
San Francisco, 09 Nov 2018 — According to a report published by Grand View Research, Inc.; the thalassemia market is expected to reach a valuation of around USD 3.53 billion by 2022.
Factors such as high prevalence of the disease, increasing awareness regarding the disease, and technological developments can propel the market during the forecast period (2016 to 2022).
High demand for universal cure of the disease is expected to boost the market growth in the coming years. This disease is a group of inheritable blood disorders, in which the body produces abnormal hemoglobin that leads to destruction of red blood cells and finally resulted into anemia. About one in every 100,000 individuals in the global population shows indications of this disease. There are two main types of this diseases such as alpha-thalassemia and beta-thalassemia. The beta-thalassemia is considered as more serious and common autosomal recessive disorder worldwide and it is comparatively rare in the U.S. According to the Thalassemia International Federation, about 7.0% of worldwide population suffers with diseases and conditions associated with hemoglobin, out of which approximately 70.0% have sickle cell anemia and the remaining develop thalassemia or other blood ailments. About 2.1% of the population around the world are suffered from several form of thalassemia. This disorder found in about 4.4 in every 10,000 live births across the world. Regardless of technological advancements, the need for reliable treatment option is still exist in the market as medications prescribed for the disease cures only symptoms such as anemia, vitamin deficiency, and iron overload. This is likely to create many opportunities in the market to develop a universal curative treatment for the disease.
Access In-depth Insights On Thalassemia Market: www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/thalassemia-market
Worldwide thalassemia market can be segmented on the basis of therapeutic class, pipeline, and region. The therapeutic class segment includes iron chelating drugs. At present, blood transfusion and iron chelation therapies are the only treatment options available in the market. However, the therapeutics segment is likely to display strong commercial opportunities, if drugs which are under phase II/III clinical pipeline obtain approvals from regulatory authorities. The pipeline segment includes gene therapy. This therapy is considered as the most hopeful therapy among several other developing curative therapies along with some other genomic products which are in late-stage trials. At present, there are about 15 pipeline products are under clinical trials. Most of these are based on gene therapy and emphasis on providing a cure for the illness.
Geographically, the market can be divided into the U.S., the U.K., France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and Japan.
Occurrence of the disease is likely to increase gradually across the regions. This expansion can be associated with population relocation, intermarriages, and genetic and environmental factors.
Rising awareness regarding available treatment methods and launch of new treatment methods are expected to drive the market in developed regions like Europe and North America.
In 2016, The EU5 (the U.K., France, Germany, Italy, and Spain) countries estimated for the largest market share of a 38.0%. followed by the U.S. and Japan. The U.S. and Europe are expected to grow on account of introduction of gene therapy.
The U.S. is likely to show rapid growth with a lucrative CAGR during the forecast period due to rise in occurrence of the disease and availability of well-established healthcare infrastructure and services. In the U.S., the disease is rare, which affects less than 20,000 people. The disease is also mostly prevalent in coastal regions of Turkey, Greece, major Mediterranean islands such as Cyprus, and some parts of Italy. Moreover, the disease is also common in the Mediterranean region, Africa, Middle East, Central Asia, the Indian subcontinent, and the Far East and Asian countries such as Maldives and India. Large youth population in developing countries such as India and Pakistan are expected to provide more opportunities in the market. Countries such as India and Thailand are expected to provide lucrative growth opportunities in the coming years.
Prominent companies operating in the market include Acceleron Pharma, Inc.; bluebird bio, Inc.; GlaxoSmithKline plc; Kiadis Pharma; and Incyte Corporation.
Access More Reports Of The Same Category: www.grandviewresearch.com/industry/pharmaceuticals
Grand View Research has segmented the global thalassemia market based on therapeutic class, pipeline, and region:
Thalassemia Therapeutic Class Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2016–2022)
Iron Chelating Drugs
Exjade/Jadenu (deferasirox)
Pipeline Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2016–2022)
Gene Therapy
LentiGlobin
Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2016–2022)
U.S.
U.K.
France
Germany
Italy
Spain
Japan
Browse Press Release of this Report: www.grandviewresearch.com/press-release/global-thalassemia-market
About Grand View Research
Grand View Research, Inc. is a U.S. based market research and consulting company, registered in the State of California and headquartered in San Francisco. The company provides syndicated research reports, customized research reports, and consulting services. To help clients make informed business decisions, we offer market intelligence studies ensuring relevant and fact-based research across a range of industries, from technology to chemicals, materials and healthcare.
For More Information: www.grandviewresearch.com
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sarkarimirror · 7 years ago
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Over 1 Lakh Thalassaemia Patients Die before They Turn 20
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Over 1 Lakh Thalassaemia Patients Die before They Turn 20, as the Blood Disorder Spikes Anemia Rates in Gurgaon Annually, more than 10,000 children are born with thalassemia in India. While countries like Pakistan and Dubai have made carrier testing compulsory for relatives of thalassaemia patients, India lacks a robust prevention and control program. Severe form of thalassaemia leads to anaemia, which is playing a contributory role in the high anaemia rates in the country. In urban Gurgaon only, around 63%of children between the ages of 6 to 59 months are anaemic, with thalassaemia being a significant causative factor. Gurgaon, 09th May 2018: India is one of the worst thalassemia infected countries in the world with more than 4 crore carriers and over 1 lakh thalassaemia majors under blood transfusion every month. With the World Thalassaemia Day around the corner, the focus falls back on the efforts to contain the disease. Over 1 lakh thalassemia patients across the country die before they turn 20 due to lack of access to treatment. With preventive health not being the norm in India, people suffering from thalassaemia are unknowingly passing on this genetic disorder to their children. Every year more than 10,000 children with thalassaemia major are born in India. While countries like Pakistan, Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Saudi Arabia have made carrier testing compulsory for relatives of thalassaemia patients long back, there has been no move to put in place prevention and control program at the national level in India. “Thalassemia is an inherited condition which is carried in the genes and passed on from parents to children. One of the major types of thalassemia, Beta thalassemia, happens when the gene that controls the production of a protein called beta globin becomes defective. The rising number of thalassemic children is posing a threat on the public health of our country. Lack of awareness of the problem, failure in planning, no provisions for prevention and inadequate treatment leading to premature death among the affected children are the leading causes for the crisis”, says Dr. Manjeetha Nath Das, Consultant Internal Medicine, Columbia Asia Hospital, Gurgaon. The inherited blood disorder destroys the red blood cells extensively, leading to anaemia, in which the body does not produce enough normal healthy blood cells. Thalassemia could be one of the important factors causing high anaemia rates in Gurgaon.  As per government data, around 63% of children between the age of 6 to 59 months are anaemic in urban Gurgaon. Children with mild thalassemia do not show any symptoms, and doctors may not diagnose it until a routine blood test reveals anaemia. Only on further investigation and testing for iron-deficiency, is when Thalassemia is detected generally. The focus needs to be on early diagnosis, which gives the patient and family due time to contain the disease. “Children who have mild thalassemia may feel tired or irritable, have shortness of breath, feel dizzy or lightheaded, and have pale skin, lips or nail beds compared to their normal colour. In more severe cases, they may also have heart palpitations, jaundice, enlarged liver or spleen, enlarged bones, mainly in the cheeks and forehead, and slowed growth which is caused by the late onset of puberty caused by anaemia. If children are not diagnosed and treated in time, thalassemia may play a part in other health problems such as heart diseases, infections and weakness, and brittle bones”, he says. Thalassemia refers to a spectrum of genetic blood disorders characterized by the reduction in the synthesis or absence of hemoglobin in the body. People with thalassemia usually produce lesser amounts of healthy hemoglobin, and their bone marrow could even stop producing healthy red blood cells after sometime. The disease has wide-ranging effects on the human body like iron overload, bone deformities and in severe cases can cause heart diseases. Currently there is no cure for thalassaemia and regular blood transfusion is the only measure to prolong life. Most thalassemia major patients require blood transfusions every 2-4 weeks, depending on their consumption of the infused cells. Regular transfusions provide patients with the red blood cells needed to survive. However, once these red blood cells are broken down, the body is left with an excess of iron. Suggesting some strategies for control, Dr. Manjeetha Nath Das says, “There is a need to educate health professionals, school and college students, pregnant women and the population at large about thalassemia. Establishing prenatal diagnosis facilities in different regions of the country and setting up a greater number of day care centers for managing existing thalassemia patients along with developing cost-effective facilities for stem cell transplantation across the country are certain infrastructure development strategies which can help in curbing the burden.” Thalassemia poses a major physical and emotional health burden for many children and their family members, and just like other blood-disorders, there is still a certain level of stigma attached to it. Collective action can pave the way for a brighter future with regard to treatment and management in thalassemic children. And, parents must remember that if they are diagnosed with the disease, it is not the end of the world, and there is hope left for them and their children. Children suffering from this disease also require psychosocial support, including promotion of a clear understanding of the disease. Thalassemia support groups are also very important as they not only educate patients and their families about the disease, but also provide them with an opportunity to meet their peers and participate in social activities. Children should be allowed to get involved in normal activities with healthy peers to further their development and build their self-image. The need for psychosocial support is even greater in India where treatment poses a financial burden as well. The need to shift the attention on psychosocial management aspects of thalassemics by initiating intervention programs will help them in leading a healthy, creative and fulfilling life. Read the full article
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