World Thalassaemia Day 2023
The 8th of May is World Thalassaemia Day, a special day dedicated to raise awareness of a hereditary condition known as Thalassaemia. This condition causes the body to create insufficient levels of haemoglobin, which is required for oxygen transport in the blood. Individuals with Thalassaemia inherit this condition, and it results in reduced levels of oxygen-carrying proteins in their blood. The goal of World Thalassaemia Day is to raise awareness and understanding of this blood illness, as well as to show support for individuals who suffer from it.
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World Thalassaemia Day-Theme
The theme for this year’s International Thalassaemia Day is “Strengthening Education to Bridge the Thalassaemia Care Gap.” The theme aims to improve individuals' understanding and expertise of the disease, with the goal of closing the gap in thalassaemia care. The focus is on improving the skills and knowledge of patients to empower them to take control of their health and manage the condition more effectively.
World Thalassaemia Day-Significance
World Thalassaemia Day holds significant importance as it is dedicated to raising awareness about a genetic blood disorder called Thalassaemia. The day serves as an opportunity to educate people about the disease, its causes, and symptoms, and to encourage the adoption of healthy lifestyles that can help prevent the onset of Thalassaemia. The day is particularly important in emphasising the difficulties that people with Thalassaemia encounter and emphasising the significance of providing them with appropriate care and support. Additionally, World Thalassaemia Day serves as a reminder to society about the need for continued research and development in the field of Thalassaemia treatment and management.
World Thalassaemia Day-History
The Thalassaemia International Federation (TIF), a non-profit organization that represents individuals and families affected by Thalassaemia worldwide, established and organized the first World Thalassaemia Day in 1994. Mr Panos Englezos, Thalassaemia sufferers and their parents from the United Kingdom, the United States, Greece, Italy, and Cyprus created the TIF in 1986. The day was created in memory of Mr Panos’ son, George, who had passed away due to Thalassaemia. Since then, World Thalassaemia Day is observed annually on May 8th to raise awareness about Thalassaemia and its impact on individuals and families worldwide.
About the Thalassaemia:
Thalassaemia is a genetic blood disorder that affects the production of haemoglobin, the protein that carries oxygen in the blood. Haemoglobin is composed of two proteins: alpha and beta globin. Thalassaemia is caused by a mutation in one or both of the genes that produce alpha or beta globin, resulting in diminished or missing production of one or both forms of globin. This leads to a shortage of haemoglobin, causing anaemia and other related complications.
There are two main types of Thalassaemia: alpha Thalassaemia and beta Thalassaemia.
• Alpha Thalassaemia occurs when there is a problem with the alpha globin gene, resulting in a reduced production of alpha globin.
• Beta Thalassaemia, on the other hand, occurs when there is a problem with the beta globin gene, leading to reduced or absent production of beta globin.
The severity of Thalassaemia depends on the specific genetic mutation and the number of genes affected. Individuals who inherit one mutated gene are carriers and do not usually exhibit symptoms of the disorder. However, those who inherit two mutated genes, one from each parent, will develop Thalassaemia and experience various symptoms, including fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, pale skin, and jaundice.
Thalassaemia is more common in Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Southeast Asian communities. There is currently no cure for Thalassaemia, but treatment options include blood transfusions, bone marrow transplants, and gene therapy. Early diagnosis and management of Thalassaemia are essential to improve the quality of life of individuals with the disorder.
Important takeaways for all competitive exams:
• Thalassaemia International Federation: Nicosia, Cyprus;
• Thalassaemia International Federation President: Mr. Panos Egglezos;
• Thalassaemia International Federation Established: 1986.
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