The Egyptian Ministry of Health commemorated International Thalassemia Day on May 8 by revealing that 32,591 individuals diagnosed with Thalassemia received treatment and health counselling.
This assistance was made possible through a presidential initiative for premarital testing.
The ministry’s Facebook statement disclosed that these cases accounted for 1.9 percent of the total individuals screened under the initiative, which reached 1.7 million young men and women.
What is Thalassemia?
Hossam Abdel Ghaffar, the official spokesperson for the Ministry of Health and Population, underscored that Thalassemia ranks among the most prevalent genetic blood disorders in Egypt.
This condition, characterised by a deficiency of hemoglobin and red blood cells, is inherited and results from a genetic mutation passed from parents to offspring.
Abdel Ghaffar elaborated that individuals may either manifest symptoms of the disease or carry a single gene without displaying any signs.
He emphasized common symptoms such as anemia-related indicators including pale skin, fatigue, stunted growth, irregular heartbeat, and infertility.
Treatment options
Abdel Ghaffar elaborated that the treatment approach for Thalassemia varies depending on the specific type and severity of the condition. Options may encompass recurrent blood transfusions, specialised nutritional supplements, Stem cell transplantation, supportive care and the use of folic acid supplement.
Highlighting the significance of the premarital testing initiative, Abdel Ghaffar underscored that upon receiving Thalassemia-related test results, individuals are promptly notified via text message.
The message advises recipients to seek further evaluation from a specialist and visit the nearest hematology clinic if necessary.
Moreover, Abdel Ghaffar emphasised that the premarital counselling process aims to raise awareness and provide essential information without impinging on individuals’ autonomy.
Couples receive education about Thalassemia, its potential complications, and are informed about the indicators that could suggest a risk of Thalassemia in their offspring.
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