#End Thal Now - Join the Community
Thalassemia is a genetic blood disorder that results in the reduced production
of
hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells responsible for oxygen transport.
This
leads to anemia, causing symptoms like fatigue, weakness, and paleness. In
more
severe cases, it can cause growth delays, bone deformities, and organ
damage.
Types of Thalassemia
- Alpha Thalassemia: Caused by a mutation in the alpha-globin
gene,
leading to reduced alpha-globin production.
- Beta Thalassemia: Caused by a mutation in the beta-globin
gene,
leading to reduced beta-globin production.
Symptoms
- Fatigue and weakness
- Pale or yellowish skin
- Slow growth and development in children
- Bone deformities, especially in the face and skull
- Enlarged spleen or liver
Diagnosis and Treatment
Thalassemia is diagnosed through blood tests that check for hemoglobin levels
and
the presence of abnormal hemoglobin. Genetic testing can also be used to
identify
carriers of the thalassemia trait.
Treatment for thalassemia may include blood transfusions, iron chelation
therapy,
and folic acid supplements. In severe cases, bone marrow or stem cell
transplants
may be necessary.
Living with Thalassemia
With proper medical care and management, individuals with thalassemia can lead
healthy
lives. It is important for individuals with thalassemia to receive regular
medical
care, follow a healthy lifestyle, and avoid factors that can worsen their
condition,
such as infections and certain medications.
#Rotary EndThalNow
Project Chair, Rtn. Jadhwani said, “Thalassaemia is
painful to manage, however, there is a silver lining to this disorder—it is
completely preventable, provided there is awareness among the community.
Thalassaemia has two variants: Minor and Major. People with the minor variant
live almost normal lives, but must be careful when choosing a life partner.
Marrying another thalassaemia minor can lead to the birth of a thalassaemia
major child, which brings significant complications.”
Thalassaemia is a genetic disorder that can impact a child from birth, requiring
lifelong blood transfusions and iron removal medicines. These children face
multiple complications, including the risk of critical organ failure such as the
heart and kidneys. Approximately 2% of the world’s population carries a
thalassaemia trait, making it a global health concern. Thalassaemia affects men
and women equally, with about 4.4 out of every 10,000 live births worldwide
impacted. Awareness is therefore essential.
The life span of a thalassaemic child can be shortened depending on the quality
of management. Optimal care costs around ₹2 lakhs per year, a burden many
families cannot afford, leading to suboptimal treatment and further
complications.
Care: Rotary supports over 600 thalassaemic children across the
district by ensuring adequate blood supply for transfusions in comfortable
environments, and by providing financial assistance for filters, medicines, and
necessary tests.
Awareness: The project focuses on educating young adults about
thalassaemia, especially the importance of blood matching before marriage.
Thalassaemia minor detection tests are conducted in colleges, communities, and
corporates to inform individuals of their status.
Prevention: Rotary engages with gynecologists to promote
pre-natal thalassaemia screening, helping to prevent the birth of thalassaemic
children.
Event Partners (End Thal Now Campaign)
Rotary - END THAL NOW
A Rotary initiative focused on combating thalassemia, a blood disorder, particularly in Navi Mumbai, with a goal to make the area free of the disease by 2026. The "End Thal Now" program aims to significantly increase the number of thalassemia children receiving care and move towards a thalassemia-free future for the region.
Rotary Club of Millennium City
Established in 1994, Rotary Club of Millennium City (club id 30281) is one of the largest clubs in Navi Mumbai under The Rotary International district 3142 in Mumbai. Club includes businessmen, professionals and top executives who have immense experience, access to resources and a passion to do service for the society.