Thalassemia is an inherited blood disorder where the body does not create enough haemoglobin, resulting in the weakening and destruction of red blood cells. Two types of thalassemia, alpha and beta occur, with Thalassemia Minor, Thalassemia Intermedia and Thalassemia Major being sub-categories. The compromised red blood cells result in a host of problems, such as anaemia, shortness of breath, extreme fatigue, and irregular heartbeats.
World Thalassemia Day aims to create awareness about the disease and support patients, their loved ones and health care staff with information to combat it. Below, we go through the date, theme and need for the day.