World Thalassemia Day: Here are its characteristics, symptoms and types of this genetic blood disorder   

May 8 is observed as World Thalassemia Day in order to spread awareness about this blood disorder that most people are unaware of. Thalassemia is a genetically acquired chronic blood disease that can be potentially fatal, and the Thalassemia International Federation thus took the initiative to launch this day to make people aware of how it is caused, the symptoms to look out for and its treatment.   

In an interview with The Indian Express, Dr Preetam Jain, Medical Oncologist at Mumbai’s Bhatia Hospital, says this disorder is caused by genetic mutation or the passing on of the key genetic fragments where at least one of the parents already has this disorder. It causes defective synthesis of haemoglobin, which ultimately leads to low production of blood cells. Some of the most commonly occurring symptoms are anaemia, fatigue, enlarged liver and spleen, growth impairment, skeletal deformities, leg ulcers and infections.   

There are two main types of Thalassemia – Alpha and Beta Thalassemia. In Alpha Thalassemia, the haemoglobin does not produce alpha protein. The patient may have no symptoms in one mutated gene but may experience mild anaemia in two mutated genes, but three mutated genes cause chronic anaemia, and four mutated genes is the worst form of this disorder. On the other hand, beta Thalassemia is divided into three categories – minor, intermediate and major. Minor causes no symptoms, but intermediate causes moderate anaemia symptoms. However, major beta Thalassemia will make the patient require blood transfusions throughout their lives.