Jackie Shroff, known for his advocacy of green living, is also raising awareness about thalassemia, a serious blood disorder. He emphasizes the importance of getting screened for thalassemia before planning a pregnancy. In a conversation with YouTuber Ranveer Allahbadia, Shroff said, “We need to raise awareness about thalassemia. It’s important to understand and discuss it. Couples should get checked before planning a pregnancy. If both parents are carriers of the thalassemia gene, their child could be born with thalassemia major, requiring blood transfusions every 15 days for life. That’s why screening is crucial.”

What is Thalassemia?

Thalassemia is an inherited blood disorder that results in reduced hemoglobin production. “This leads to fewer healthy red blood cells,” explains Dr. Muralidaran C, Consultant Hematologist at Wockhardt Hospitals Mira Road.

Causes

Thalassemia is caused by genetic mutations that affect the body’s ability to produce hemoglobin effectively. “The disorder is primarily due to mutations in the genes responsible for hemoglobin production, affecting alpha or beta-thalassemia. Both parents must carry the defective gene for their child to develop this condition,” Dr. Muralidaran adds.

Symptoms

Symptoms of thalassemia include fatigue, breathing problems, cold sensations, dizziness, and pale skin. “Other signs may include weakness, abdominal swelling, brittle bones, poor appetite, and jaundice,” notes Dr. Muralidaran.

Transmission

For a child to be at risk of developing more severe forms of thalassemia, both parents must carry the gene for the disorder, according to Dr. Muralidaran.

Prevention and Treatment

Treatment varies based on the severity of the disorder. Dr. Haricharan G, Senior Consultant Physician at Gleneagles Hospitals, Hyderabad, explains that mild cases may require minimal treatment, while severe cases might need regular blood transfusions, iron chelation therapy to prevent iron overload, and possibly bone marrow or stem cell transplants. “Early awareness and intervention are key to managing thalassemia and preventing severe complications,” says Dr. Haricharan.

What to Keep in Mind

Complications of thalassemia can include infections, high iron levels, bone deformities, enlarged spleens, slow growth in children, and heart problems. Dr. Muralidaran emphasizes that genetic testing is essential for determining if a partner carries the thalassemia gene. “Individuals with the disorder may need bone marrow transplants, spleen removal surgery, and regular blood transfusions,” he adds.

Maintaining a healthy diet, avoiding sick individuals, staying up-to-date with vaccinations, and refraining from taking unnecessary iron supplements are also important.

Awareness of thalassemia is crucial as early diagnosis and treatment can greatly improve outcomes and quality of life.