Understand Thalassemia in Depth
Thalassemia, an inherited blood disease that causes hemoglobin to be produced in the red blood cells and carry oxygen around the body, is genetically transmitted. Anemia is the result, which can lead to fatigue and complications. It is present in all countries but its concentration is highest in the Mediterranean, Africa, Middle East, India and Southeast Asia. Understanding thalassemia will help you to improve your treatment and management of the disease. It can also enhance patient's quality of life.
What is Thalassemia?
Thalassemia, which is caused by a genetic disorder that causes an abnormal or insufficient production of hemoglobin and hence weakened red blood cells. Anemia (a lack of red blood cell) can result, causing a range of problems ranging from fatigue to organ damage.
World Health Organization estimates that 5% of people in the world carry trait genes associated with hemoglobin disorders. These include primarily thalassemias and sickle cell diseases. Each year, between 300,000 and 500,000 babies are born with serious forms of hemoglobin disorders, including a significant number of people who have thalassemia.
Thalassemia: Common causes
Thalassemia results from mutations of the DNA in cells which make hemoglobin. The mutations can be passed on from one parent to the next. Alpha and Beta are the two types of thalassemia named for the parts of hemoglobin molecules affected by mutations. Examples include:
- Alpha Thalassemia is a condition that occurs when any of the four genes for alphaglobin are damaged or missing.
- Beta Thalassemia occurs when either one or both beta-globin gene are affected.
Treatment options for Thalassemia
Treatment for thalassemia is dependent on both the severity and type of disease. Treatments include:
- Blood Transfusions - Regular transfusions of blood are the mainstay in treating severe Thalassemia.
- The iron chelation therapy helps remove the excess iron in your body that is a result of blood transfusions.
- A bone marrow transplant (also known as stem cell therapy) can be used to cure certain types of thalassemia, if the donor is suitable.
Bone marrow transplants are the only cure for thalassemia. According to research , they have an 80- 90% success rate.
Experts' opinions on Thalassemia
Hematologists and geneticists are in agreement that early detection and treatment is crucial to managing thalassemia. The American Journal of Hematology reports that advances in treatment have improved the quality of life and life expectancy of individuals who suffer from thalassemia. They also emphasize the importance of genetic counselling for families who are at high risk of having a child with this disorder.
Thalassemia: Natural Treatments, Tips and Prevention
Although there is currently no natural treatment for Thalassemia, good health and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can be helpful in managing the symptoms. They include:
- A healthy diet high in vitamins and mineral will improve your overall health.
- It is important to avoid excess iron, unless it has been prescribed by your doctor. People with thalassemia may accumulate dangerous amounts of iron.
- Regular exercise can improve your health and overall well-being.
Genetic counseling and prenatal screening are two of the most effective ways to prevent Thalassemia.
Thalassemia, a genetic disease that is serious and requires constant medical attention. Early diagnosis and treatment can help individuals living with thalassemia lead a healthy life. The prognosis of those suffering from severe cases has been significantly improved by advances in medical treatment. There is hope that thalassemia sufferers will have a brighter future as research and treatment advances.
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