Thalassemia
Thalassemia is a genetic blood disorder that affects the body's ability to produce healthy hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells responsible for carrying oxygen. People with thalassemia inherit defective genes from their parents, leading to reduced or abnormal hemoglobin production. This causes red blood cells to break down more easily, resulting in anemia, which is a condition characterized by fatigue and weakness due to a lack of oxygen in the body.
There are two main types of thalassemia: alpha and beta, each related to different parts of the hemoglobin molecule being affected. The severity of the condition can vary widely, ranging from mild symptoms that might not require treatment to severe forms needing regular blood transfusions and medical care. Some people discover they carry thalassemia genes only when a routine blood test reveals mild anemia or when genetic screening is done.
Management of thalassemia often involves regular medical monitoring and can include treatments such as blood transfusions, medications, or even a bone marrow transplant in severe cases. With proper care, many individuals with thalassemia can lead healthy lives, although it remains essential for them to receive ongoing care and support.
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