Awareness is the key to beat Thalassemia says chief minister Dr. Manik Saha while addressing in the World Thalassemia Day 2023 programme organized by Indian Academy of Pediatrics, Tripura in collaboration with National Health Mission, Tripura & Thalassemia Society, Agartala at TIPS, Hapania on Monday.

On this day, let’s all pledge together to raise awareness on thalassemia & support the persons fighting with this blood disorder, the chief minister said.

Thalassaemia is an inherited disorder characterized by reduced levels of oxygen-carrying proteins, known as haemoglobin, and fewer red blood cells than normal. This condition can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and stunted growth. While mild forms of the disorder may not require treatment, more severe cases often necessitate blood transfusions or stem-cell transplants from a compatible donor. Understanding the nature of the disorder, its mode of inheritance, and its effects on the body is crucial in planning appropriate treatment options, he mentioned.

World Thalassemia Day aims to create awareness about the ailment and support patients, their families and health care workers with information to combat it.

The theme for this year’s World Thalassaemia Day is ‘Be aware. Share. Care.’ This theme serves as a universal call to collaborate with global communities in spreading awareness about Thalassaemia and the available treatment options.

World Thalassemia Day is marked on May 8, every year. The event was first organised by the Thalassemia International Federation (TIF) in 1994, in memory of George Englezos, the son of TIF founder Panos Englezos. He had lost his life to the disease. Since then, the event is observed every year.