World Thalassaemia Day is observed on every 8th of May. This day tries to create awareness about the disease and help thalassaemia patients lead a normal life despite the burden of the disease. Thalassemias are inherited blood disorders characterized by decreased hemoglobin production. Symptoms depend on the type and can vary from none to severe. Often there is mild to severe anemia (low red blood cells or hemoglobin). Anemia can result in feeling tired and pale skin. There may also be bone problems, an enlarged spleen, yellowish skin, and dark urine. Slow growth may occur in children.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, World Thalassaemia Day 2020 will be celebrated through different online activities. The theme for the International Thalassaemia Day 2020 is – ‘The dawning of a new era for thalassaemia’ which states that it is time for a global effort to make novel therapies accessible and affordable to patients.
Today on 8th May, World Thalassemia Day 2020, The Wishing Factory have launched the #UltaHokeThalassemiaRoke challenge to help raise funds for patients who have lost their savings during the lockdown and cannot afford their next transfusion. They need these transfusions every 2-4 weeks to slow down the deadly effects of Thalassemia Major. While the blood bags are provided free, they still need upto INR 5000 each month for other crucial expenses related to the transfusion.
You can help by posting your ‘ulta’ picture and challenge 3 friends to do the same. To donate, simply click on the link in our bio. Your donations will be matched by Zydus Healthcare Ltd, multiplying the impact you can make! Together, we can support 100 patients’ transfusions for the next 6 months.
To Donate Click Here
Celebrities Post on Campaign #UltaHokeThalassemiaRoke
What is thalassaemia?
Thalassaemia is a blood disorder in which your body has less hemoglobin than normal. This disorder is passed down through families. Hemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. Patients with thalassaemia suffer from anemia due to low levels of hemoglobin.
Symptoms of Thalassaemia
The symptoms of thalassaemia may vary according to the type and severity of the disease. Some common symptoms may include-
- Weakness
- Pale skin
- Bone deformities
- Dark urine
- Constant fatigue
- Slow growth
- Abdominal swelling
Causes of Thalassaemia
Thalassaemia is genetic. You get it from your parents. Now, tests are conducted before the birth of the child to take the necessary steps from an early stage. This disease cannot be prevented since it is genetic.
Treatment of Thalassaemia
Mild thalassaemia may not require treatment but people with severe thalassaemia require regular blood transfusions to cope with the condition. Medicines and supplements are also required for a normal life.
