Why in News?
Thalassemia patients in Kerala face declining haemoglobin levels due to a shortage of leukocyte filter sets and iron chelation drugs, delaying transfusions and risking organ damage, with the government calling tenders to replenish supplies soon.
Description:
- Thalassaemia is an inherited (genetic) blood disorder.
- It causes the body to produce less hemoglobin than normal.
- Hemoglobin (Hb) — a protein in red blood cells (RBCs) — carries oxygen throughout the body.
- Deficiency of Hb or RBCs leads to anemia, causing fatigue and weakness.
Cause:
- Genetic mutation in the DNA controlling hemoglobin production.
- Passed on by inheritance — from one or both parents.
- The type of thalassemia depends on which gene mutation (alpha or beta globin) is inherited.
Types:
- Alpha Thalassaemia – mutation in alpha-globin gene.
- Beta Thalassaemia – mutation in beta-globin gene (more common in India).
Symptoms:
Mild to severe anemia, Fatigue and weakness, Pale or yellowish skin, Shortness of breath / dizziness, feeling cold frequently, Slow growth and bone deformities (in severe cases), & Iron overload due to repeated transfusions.
Diagnosis:
- Blood tests – Hemoglobin electrophoresis
- Genetic testing – To detect carrier or affected status
Treatment:
Stem cell or bone marrow transplant – Only potential cure, but rarely done due to high risk and cost.
Regular blood transfusions – Maintain normal Hb levels and prevent severe anemia.
Chelation therapy – Medication to remove excess iron buildup due to transfusions.
Folic acid supplements – To support RBC production.
La Excellence IAS Academy, the best IAS coaching in Hyderabad, known for delivering quality content and conceptual clarity for UPSC 2025 preparation.
FOLLOW US ON:
◉ YouTube : https://www.youtube.com/@CivilsPrepTeam
◉ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LaExcellenceIAS
◉ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laexcellenceiasacademy/
GET IN TOUCH:
Contact us at info@laex.in, https://laex.in/contact-us/
or Call us @ +91 9052 29 2929, +91 9052 99 2929, +91 9154 24 2140
OUR BRANCHES:
Head Office: H No: 1-10-225A, Beside AEVA Fertility Center, Ashok Nagar Extension, VV Giri Nagar, Ashok Nagar, Hyderabad, 500020
Madhapur: Flat no: 301, survey no 58-60, Guttala begumpet Madhapur metro pillar: 1524, Rangareddy Hyderabad, Telangana 500081
Bangalore: Plot No: 99, 2nd floor, 80 Feet Road, Beside Poorvika Mobiles, Chandra Layout, Attiguppe, Near Vijaya Nagara, Bengaluru, 560040