Thalassemia -Types, Risk Factors, Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment

Abstract

Thalassemia is a group of inherited hemoglobin disorders that affect red blood cells' ability to transport oxygen due to insufficient production of alpha or beta-globin proteins. Symptoms of thalassemia vary based on severity, ranging from none to severe anemia, fatigue, enlarged organs, and bone deformities, with severe forms potentially causing heart and liver diseases, infections, and osteoporosis. Thalassemias cannot be prevented but can be identified through prenatal testing and family genetic studies. Repeated blood transfusions can cause iron overload, necessitating iron chelation therapy for those undergoing treatment with blood transfusion. If you have thalassemia and are considering pregnancy, it's important to seek genetic counseling and explore potential fertility treatments.