Thalassemia syndrome is a serious and inherited blood disorder that causes the human body to have less hemoglobin than normal, a very important constituent of red blood cells. Thalassemia is of two types – Alpha and Beta – in which children inherit the condition from their parents who carry the mutated thalassemia. The severity of this disease, however, is noted by words such as trait, carrier, intermedia, and major. It is equally important to note that people living with Thalassemia trait have normal life expectancy, provided they go through regular blood transfusion therapy and take regular medicines, but those suffering from Beta thalassemia major can suffer from several health complications such as delayed growth, liver and gallbladder problems, diabetes, heart problems, that make the conditions fatal.
That said, there are various myths associated with Thalassemia that are important to be busted to spread awareness and extend support to those suffering from it. May 8, 2022, being another World Thalassemia Day, below are some of the myths and facts:

Myth 1: Thalassemia is not preventable

Fact: The claim is completely erroneous. Thalassemia is 100% preventable. The disease can easily be prevented through both pre-marital screening and early pregnancy screening.

Myth 2: Thalassemia patients should not get married

Fact: Thalassemia carriers can absolutely get married to each other, provided they aware of each other’s thalassemia status. The couple should also get their DNA testing done to ascertain which mutation they have.

Myth 3: There is no known cure for Thalassemia

Fact: Not true. Thalassemia can be cured through stem cell or bone marrow transplantation. However, they are not very often because of significant risks involved, given steam cell transplant is an intensive treatment and is expensive as well.

Myth 4: Thalassemia patients always suffer from fatigue and remain exhausted

Fact: Not true again. With proper and regular medical care, Thalassemia patients can overcome their fatigue and lead a normal, healthy life even into adulthood.
syndrome is an inherited blood disorder that causes the body to have less haemoglobin than normal. There are two types of thalassemia – Alpha and Beta – in which children inherited the condition from parents who carry the mutated thalassemia.
People with thalassemia trait have normal life expectancy. However, beta thalassemia major along with heart ailments can make the condition fatal before 30 years of age.