KARACHI:
Thalassemia is a hereditary disease, which means that it is transferred from parents to children. It is categorised as a blood disorder in which the body produces an abnormal form or inadequate amount of hemoglobin. Since hemoglobin primarily enables red blood cells to carry oxygen, someone who suffers from the disease may experience unusual symptoms like weakness, fatigue, stunted growth, and abdominal swelling. It may also cause anemia in some cases.
Recently, the number of people diagnosed with the disease in Pakistan has hit record levels. According to reports, nearly 5,000 to 7,000 babies are born with thalassemia each year across the country. In the Kech district of Balochistan, some 286 cases have been registered in the Civil Hospital. However, due to the lack of healthcare facilities, patients who require blood transfusion at least once a month continue to suffer immensely. Despite the rapid increase in cases, doctors and scientists remain steadfast in trying to combat the issue. The rate of survival of thalassemia patients in the country has enhanced from 13% to 23% in the last few years.
In light of the deplorable situation, the government should invest more in research and work towards providing the best facilities to suffering patients. Apart from receiving blood transfusions on time, these patients need to be given appropriate treatment of medicines and injections. Furthermore, awareness campaigns need to be launched so that hopeful couples are urged to undertake a thalassemia test before marriage.
Zarjan Muhammad
Turbat
Published in The Express Tribune, January 24th, 2021.
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